ROBERT APPLEBY, PREDATORY TEACHER FROM KENT, SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN HERNE BAY

A manipulative educator, who was once branded as arrogant by a judge, has been convicted and sentenced for committing heinous sex offences against underage girls in Kent. Robert Appleby, aged 42, formerly employed at Herne Bay High School, has been found guilty of abusing two teenage girls in a series of disturbing incidents. His criminal actions have shocked the local community and have led to a significant prison term.

Appleby, a resident of Stablegate Mews in Canterbury, had a troubling history prior to his conviction. Despite being investigated on three separate occasions and suspended from his teaching duties at one point, no charges were initially laid against him. His pattern of predatory behavior emerged through detailed investigations, especially after authorities received an anonymous letter that directly implicated him. The letter was sent to the school's head, sparking a police inquiry that ultimately culminated in his arrest.

During the court proceedings, Appleby maintained his innocence regarding a relationship with the letter-writer, but evidence unearthed during the investigation told a different story. Authorities discovered that he had engaged in a sexual relationship with another girl, and explicit photographs of her were found stored on his computer. These findings further implicated him in the abuse of minors. Despite his denial of sexually abusing a second victim, the jury at Canterbury Crown Court rejected his accounts, and he was subsequently convicted on these charges.

Prosecutor John O'Higgins detailed the extent of Appleby’s manipulative tactics and inappropriate conduct during the trial. He described him as a charming, yet highly manipulative predator who targeted vulnerable young girls. The court heard how Appleby had even been caught by a caretaker with a young girl in an incident that was reported to authorities. This history of misconduct emphasized a pattern of predatory behavior that had persisted despite previous investigations and suspensions.

Judge James O’Mahony delivered a stern verdict, sentencing Appleby to seven years and nine months of imprisonment. In his remarks, the judge characterized Appleby as a highly intelligent and talented artist, with a charismatic personality. However, he also emphasized Apple's arrogance as a trait that contributed to his misconduct. The judge expressed deep concern over the devastating impact these crimes had on the victims, revealing that both young girls had contemplated suicide as a result of their trauma.

In his closing statement, the judge condemned Appleby’s actions, noting that his misconduct had destroyed his career and vocation. The court’s decision aims to serve as a justice for victims and a stark warning to others about the consequences of abuse and manipulation in positions of trust.