MICHAEL CHAPMAN SEXUAL ABUSE SCANDAL IN SILVERWELL NEAR BLACKWATER REVEALED

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Silverwell near Blackwater, a 23-year-old martial arts instructor named Michael Chapman was found guilty of engaging in inappropriate and illegal conduct involving a minor. The incident, which took place in Perranporth, involved Chapman having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl, whom he met on the beach. The court proceedings, held at Truro Crown Court, revealed the disturbing details of the case and the legal consequences faced by Chapman.

Judge Christopher Harvey Clark, QC, addressed the court and emphasized the gravity of the offense. He stated, “I want you to realize how seriously the courts regard any adult having a sexual relationship, of whatever degree, with someone under the age of consent. The guideline sentence starting point in a case of this nature is four years in custody.” Despite this, the judge chose to impose a more lenient sentence, citing Chapman’s character and previous warnings about such relationships.

Judge Clark continued, “I do not consider I need to pass such a sentence today. I have read various references which reveal that you are a conscientious, considerate, decent young man. But having been warned previously of the danger of having a relationship with a student, you somehow became emotionally entangled with another student. That is serious as she was 15 at the time. You had an intimate relationship with her which did not amount to full sexual intercourse – if it had, the sentence would be different.”

Prosecutor Will Rose outlined the circumstances, noting that there was a clear rule prohibiting instructors from having relationships with pupils. The investigation was prompted by concerns raised through Facebook and text message exchanges between Chapman and the girl, which alarmed her mother. An anonymous tip led police to interview Chapman on April 1 of the previous year. During the interview, Chapman claimed he had been assisting the girl, who was reportedly depressed, and insisted that their meeting on the beach was purely coincidental, with no prior relationship.

Defense lawyer Jeremy Leaning argued that Chapman’s employment at Argos remained unaffected and highlighted that he had been volunteering as a martial arts instructor without pay. Despite the mitigating factors, the court sentenced Chapman to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years. Additionally, he is required to participate in the Thames Valley Sex Offenders’ treatment program, register as a sex offender for ten years, and pay prosecution costs amounting to £400.

This case underscores the ongoing concerns about safeguarding minors and the responsibilities of adults in positions of trust within the community of Silverwell and beyond.