More Detention For Paedo Ex-Schoolteacher

A schoolteacher serving time for preying on young boys four decades ago has received an additional two years after another victim came forward.

Harvey Franks, 76, pleaded guilty to three further offences of gross indecency with a boy under the age of 14 years of age in 1974.

He is already serving 15 years’ imprisonment for rape and sexual assault offences against young boys.

At Croydon Crown Court he was sentenced to the further period of custody.

The victim came forward in March, last year and reported that Franks abused him at Sedgehill Secondary School in Catford, south-east London.

He had abused him multiple time for around twelve months, starting in November 1974, when the victim was 11 years-old.

An investigation by one of the Metropolitan Police's Child Abuse Investigation teams then began and Franks was arrested.

The court heard Franks was already facing trial for other offences of sexual abuse for which he was later convicted of and sentenced to 15 years imprisonment in August, last year.

His new sentence will run consecutively.

Detective Constable Tony Roper said: “Franks stole the victim's childhood, causing him extreme distress and pain throughout his life.

“He bravely came forward to report the crimes to the police.

“Franks had continued with his life as normal, but he has now been brought to justice.

"This case highlights that no matter the length of time that has passed, the public should feel reassured that the Met will thoroughly investigate non-recent offences and support and work with victims throughout.”