Former school welfare officer and Army cadet leader has been found guilty of sexually assaulting teenage girls.

Former School Official Found Guilty of Sexually Assaulting Teenage Girls

Neil Beckett, 43, has been convicted of 16 counts of sexual assault and one count of sexual grooming. The charges, spanning eight years from 2015 to 2023, involve eleven teenage girls, including students from Lagan College and Army cadets. Beckett, who previously served as a school welfare officer and Army cadet leader, was declared a registered sex offender by the judge.

The court heard testimony from victims who described how Beckett's actions, including hugging, kissing, touching their thighs, and tickling, made them feel uncomfortable. While Beckett was found not guilty of rape and other charges, the judge commended the jury for their diligence in a lengthy trial.

The allegations against Beckett involved his interactions with both Lagan College students and Army cadets. He was acquitted of rape, sexual communication with a child, and additional sexual assault charges.

Beckett is scheduled to be sentenced on December 6th.