WAYNE DALE CONVICTED OF INDECENT ASSAULTS IN GODALMING AND MAIDSTONE

In April 2016, a significant case involving allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced against Wayne Dale, a former driving instructor with connections to both Maidstone and Godalming. The proceedings revealed a troubling history of inappropriate behavior towards a teenage pupil over a decade ago, leading to his conviction on serious charges.

Wayne Dale, aged 70, appeared in court where his sentencing was temporarily postponed to allow for further reports. The presiding judge issued a stern warning, emphasizing the gravity of his actions with the statement: "All sentences are at large," underscoring the potential severity of his punishment once determined.

The victim, a 17-year-old girl at the time, was taking driving lessons with Dale in Maidstone when the incidents occurred. The Crown Court heard that during these lessons, Dale engaged in inappropriate conduct, including groping her and attempting to kiss her. Prosecutors detailed that Dale made threatening remarks, such as, "I will get you next time. Next time I will have you over the bonnet of the car," which added a menacing tone to his misconduct.

Prosecutor Alec Williams outlined how the nature of their interactions gradually shifted from casual conversation to sexual innuendos. He explained that after the lessons commenced, Dale began making comments about the girl’s physical appearance, specifically mentioning her breasts getting bigger. This behavior was described as a warning sign, indicating the direction in which the relationship was heading. The girl reportedly felt increasingly uncomfortable and took steps to dress more modestly to avoid further inappropriate comments.

Further allegations revealed that Dale offered free lessons in exchange for sexual favors, suggesting a disturbing pattern of coercion. The prosecutor noted that the communication between Dale and the girl included what he termed "amber lights"—banter that bordered on sexual innuendo, which was a cause for concern.

The court heard about two specific incidents. The first occurred at Blue Bell Hill, where Dale made an unsolicited grab for the girl’s breasts while she was driving during a lesson. Prosecutors described this as "out-of-the-blue" conduct, constituting indecent assault regardless of language or context. Despite this, the girl continued with her lessons.

The second incident took place during a cigarette break at Maidstone’s test centre. Prosecutors detailed that Dale made a more concerted assault, attempting to kiss her and grabbing her breasts again. His hands were reportedly on her thighs, moving towards her groin area, and he reiterated his threat about getting her next time.

The girl confided in her mother, expressing her desire to cease lessons with Dale due to his inappropriate advances. However, there was a significant delay before she formally reported the incidents to the police. She initially attempted to complain at the time but did not pursue the matter further until 2013. Dale denied any conduct of a sexual nature, maintaining his innocence throughout the proceedings.

Currently residing on Nursery Road in Godalming, Surrey, Dale faced two charges of indecent assault. The jury, composed of eight men and four women, found him guilty of one charge but acquitted him of the other. The judge, Julian Smith, decided to keep Dale on bail until the sentencing phase. It was also confirmed that Dale’s name will be entered onto the sex offenders’ register, reflecting the seriousness of his convictions and the impact of his actions on the victim.