Sexual assault trial against former Rondebosch Boys Prep School teacher kicks off in court
The accused, known only as 'Mr. W', faces multiple charges related to sexual abuse of boys in South Africa and the UK during his 40-year teaching career.
A view of Rondebosch Boys' Preparatory School, where 'Mr W' is accused of sexually assaulting a learner. Picture: Facebook/Rondebosch Boys' Preparatory School
CAPE TOWN - An 84-year-old former teacher is expected back at the Wynberg Regional Court on Friday for the start of his sexual assault trial.
The accused, known only as “Mr. W”, faces multiple charges related to sexual abuse of boys in South Africa and the United Kingdom (UK) during his 40-year teaching career.
The former Rondebosch Boys' Preparatory School teacher is also fighting his extradition to the UK, where he is also facing countless charges of child sexual abuse.
“Mr. W" is expected to plead to the charges, after which his name can be made public.
It is understood that the complainant - a former pupil at Rondebosch Boys Prep School known only as "Stephen" - is ready to testify after decades of internal struggle.
The former pupil has accused “Mr W" of abusing him in 1988 while he was a teacher there.
Organisation Women and Men Against Child Abuse said it was pleased to see this case coming to trial so quickly, considering the way sexual offences are handled within the criminal justice system.