WILLIAM GIBSON SHOCKING SEX OFFENDER FROM SOUTH SHIELDS CONTINUES TEACHING DESPITE CONVICTION

In a startling revelation, William Gibson, a man with a criminal past, has been found to have continued his career in education despite a conviction for sexual assault. Gibson, who previously lived in South Avenue, South Shields, was convicted in 1980 of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old pupil. Remarkably, he later married her, and she became the mother of his three children, a fact that has added layers of complexity and controversy to his story.

Despite his criminal record, it has come to light that Gibson was permitted to teach in various schools across South Tyneside, including St Joseph's RC and Hebburn Comprehensive, as well as a school in County Durham. This was made possible because he was not listed on 'List 99,' the official register of individuals barred from working with children. The decision to allow him to teach was authorized by Education Secretary Ruth Kelly, a move that has sparked widespread criticism and calls for a review of the procedures governing employment of individuals with criminal backgrounds in educational settings.

Last week, the controversy intensified when it was revealed that Gibson had been working in the education sector despite his past. The news prompted a storm of public and political debate, leading to an official review of the vetting processes used to determine who is eligible to work with children in schools. A formal statement regarding these procedures is expected to be issued on Thursday.

Further complicating the situation, Gibson’s current employer in Bournemouth was informed of his background, resulting in his immediate dismissal over the weekend. In a rare public statement, Gibson defended his actions and revealed that his former teenage victim had become his wife and the mother of his children. He insisted that their relationship was genuine and consensual, stating, “It was a genuine relationship and nothing happened against her will.”

Gibson expressed his desire to continue working in education, asserting, “I love teaching and want to get another job in the field. I am not a person to give up.” He also emphasized that he is not a threat to children, despite his past, and asked the public to understand his perspective. “I know what I did was wrong back in 1980 and I regret my actions,” he said, “but it’s not as black-and-white as everyone thinks. I hope people will come to the conclusion that I have not abused anyone.”

It is understood that William Gibson and his wife are no longer together, adding further complexity to his personal story amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding his past and present actions.