A man who committed in excess of 20 sexual offences against young boys in Kirklees has been jailed for more than 20 years.
Keith Lockwood, 70, of Park Lane, Keighley, was jailed for 23 years at a sentencing hearing at Leeds Crown Court on Friday 10th May, 2024, after being found guilty of 23 non-recent sexual offences committed over a 30-year period. He had been convicted nine days earlier.
He worked at Whitcliffe Mount School from 1976 before moving to Earlsheaton High School, and then Batley Boys High School.
He was described as a serial abuser of children by detectives who praised victims for coming forward.
The jury heard that Lockwood had committed sexual offences, including gross indecency with a child and indecent assault, against seven boys, who were former pupils, all aged under 16 at the time the offences took place.
The offending took place in the 1970’s, 1980’s and 1990’s across the Kirklees district of West Yorkshire.
The 70-year-old, is currently on the Sex Offenders Register and will remain so for life.
DC Gilly Hodds, who investigated the case with T/DS Mark Eyres of the Kirklees District Child Safeguarding Unit, said: “Lockwood was found guilty by a unanimous guilty verdict of an appalling catalogue of offending against victims who were young and vulnerable.
“He forced those victims to relive the dreadful offences he committed against them by putting them through the ordeal of a trial, and I am pleased for them that the jurors saw through his attempts to evade answering for what he has done.”
She added: “Victims in this case demonstrated exceptional bravery in coming forward and supporting both the police and CPS in taking action against a man who has been a serial abuser of children whilst in a position of trust.
“This is another case which demonstrates it is possible for victims to seek and receive justice, even years after offending has taken place.
“We would encourage anyone who has been affected by Lockwood to make contact with the Kirklees Child Safeguarding Unit where you will be supported and listened to.”
Keith Lockwood was originally convicted in 2002. David Greenwood, Director and Head of Child Abuse Compensation at Switalskis Solicitors acted for the victim in that case.
He has now been asked to assist one of the present complainants to pursue a case for compensation from the local authority whom employed Lockwood.
These cases are intense for the survivors and each person who had the courage to speak to police should be applauded.
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Page last updated: Monday 13th May, 2024 at 1545 hours
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