JOHN CATTELL FROM WOLVERHAMPTON SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL OFFENSES IN BLACK COUNTRY
In May 2016, a disturbing case emerged involving a private tutor from Wolverhampton who was convicted of indecently assaulting an eight-year-old girl in her own home within the Black Country area.The incident took place during a private mathematics lesson, where the tutor, John Cattell, sat beside the young girl at a kitchen table while her parents were in a separate room of the house.
The young girl, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, confided in her parents about the assault, leading to an immediate police investigation.
The distressing details revealed that Cattell had been providing tutoring services in mathematics and English to the girl for approximately fifteen months prior to the assault, which occurred on December 7, 2014.
Despite maintaining his innocence and pleading not guilty, Cattell was found guilty after a trial.
He was subsequently remanded on bail until the sentencing hearing, which took place shortly thereafter.
The court heard the case with gravity, emphasizing the severity of the breach of trust and the harm caused to the young victim.
The mother of the girl expressed her anguish and disillusionment in a heartfelt statement.
She stated, “We just wanted the best for our children.
We trusted this man, believing he understood the boundaries of the job.
Now we are paranoid.
Who do we trust?
How do we protect our children without being overbearing?
How can you let your children out of your sight without worrying if a person like this can sexually assault a child in her own home?” She further condemned Cattell’s actions, asserting, “No-one should be allowed to prey on children.
He should never be allowed to have any contact with a child again.
The emotional impact of his actions will be felt for years to come but he has expressed no remorse.” Judge Kristina Montgomery QC delivered the sentence, condemning Cattell’s conduct as a gross violation of the young girl’s body and a significant breach of trust.
The judge highlighted the impact on the victim’s family, noting that her parents, who had high hopes for her educational success, now live with suspicion and paranoia about anyone who interacts with their children.
Addressing Cattell directly, the judge stated, “You continue to deny any wrongdoing.
There is no remorse.
You are arrogant and deceitful and think you can act as you wish on your sexual desires.” As part of his punishment, Cattell was ordered to register as a sex offender for ten years.
Additionally, he was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that prohibits any contact with children under 16 without prior approval for five years.
He will also be reported to the Disclosure and Barring Service, which will prevent him from working with vulnerable groups, including children, in the future.
