Teacher Jailed for Online Sex Chats

A teacher has been jailed for 15 months for having explicit online conversations with a schoolgirl. Craig Lindsay, 37, from Uttoxeter, was convicted at Stafford Crown Court for inciting a child to sexual activity and sexual activity in the presence of a child.

Lindsay, a former teacher at Thomas Alleynes School, first took an interest in his victim when she was 14 years old. He showered her with compliments and began exchanging sexually explicit messages with her online when she was 16 or 17.

The court heard that Lindsay performed a sex act in front of a webcam while the girl watched. He admitted to flattering and complimenting the girl before engaging in the online exchanges.

During the trial, a former student claimed that Lindsay had once given a lesson on lap dancing and pornography to older students. The former student wrote on Facebook: "One of the funniest times ever was when Lindsay was showing us a PowerPoint presentation on lap dancing and porn. The best sociology lesson ever - the first one of my Year 12 year. He is a certified legend!"

Staffordshire County Council said it was unaware of the new claims, but confirmed that there had been no other complaints about Lindsay. The council also stated that Lindsay was suspended from his post in November 2009 following an allegation, and has since resigned.

Jailing Lindsay, Judge Michael Challinor said: "This kind of sexual abuse damages the integrity of our school system. Parents must be able to trust teachers to deal with their children appropriately. You were a teacher and it's clear you began to groom her for your own purposes when she was 14. You knew she was vulnerable and by a number of devices, flattery and subterfuge, you drew her in to this sexual activity."

The judge also highlighted the psychological harm suffered by the victim, stating that her introduction to a sexual relationship was "not normal" and that she had experienced humiliation due to the investigation.

The case is being referred to the Independent Safeguarding Authority.