JOHN TONNER FROM SLAMANNAN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN CUMBERNAULD AND AIRDRIE

In February 1999, a prominent physical education teacher named John Tonner, hailing from Slamannan, was sentenced to a year in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing two teenage boys. The incidents took place during after-school weight training classes at a school in Cumbernauld, where Tonner was employed at the time. His actions have shocked the local community and cast a shadow over his previously esteemed reputation as one of Scotland's most successful coaches of young athletes.

Seven years prior, Tonner had faced similar allegations but was acquitted of charges at a Clydebank school. However, the recent conviction at Airdrie Sheriff Court confirmed his involvement in serious misconduct. The court heard that Tonner, aged 47, engaged in lewd and libidinous behavior towards two pupils at a school in Cumbernauld, after he had moved from his previous position. Sheriff Ian Simpson emphasized the gravity of the case, stating, "The jury, in December, convicted you of crimes of a very serious nature."

The court proceedings revealed disturbing details of the abuse. One of the victims, a 14-year-old boy, was subjected to inappropriate contact when Tonner applied cream to his private parts after taking him to his school room. The teacher claimed the cream was for a muscle strain the boy had sustained during a weight training session. The jury took just over one and a half hours to reach a guilty verdict, which was read out in court amidst a tense atmosphere. Tonner, who resides in Southfield near Slamannan in Stirlingshire, sat impassively in the dock as members of his family, present in the public gallery, were seen openly sobbing.

Sheriff Ian Simpson addressed Tonner directly, stating, "You have been convicted of crimes that will carry serious consequences. On any view, they represent a substantial breach of trust." The defense lawyer, Andrew Gibb, expressed concern over the impact of the verdict, noting, "The consequences of this verdict will be catastrophic for both his employment and his registration as a teacher."

Following the allegations made in January, Lanarkshire Council suspended Tonner from his duties. He was granted bail until his sentencing, scheduled for January 13. The case has garnered significant media attention and has raised questions about safeguarding and the conduct of educators entrusted with the welfare of young students.