01 June 2026 , 21:24
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A former private school teacher will spend the rest of his life in jail after he sexually assaulted 14 of his former students.
David James Clarke, 82, led a photography club at Newlands School, Seaford in East Sussex. Using his position as head of the club, he would take boys into the dark room and sexually abuse them.
He would isolate the boys, beginning by hugging them and asking them to sit on his lap, before progressing to touching their genitals both under and over clothing, escalating to mutual masturbation and, on occasion, oral sex and buggery.
Clarke was found guilty of 45 counts of child sexual abuse and has now been sentenced to 26 years in prison at Brighton Crown Court.
He was also convicted of one count of making indecent images of children.
Claire Brinton, Specialist Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service, said: ‘David James Clarke preyed on 14 children at school, who were vulnerable because of their age, many of whom were isolated, away from their homes and families.
‘Clarke was a teacher, in a position of enormous responsibility, who exploited them for his own hideous and vile sexual gratification, often using threats and bribes to manipulate his way to abuse numerous boys in his care.
‘All children have the right to feel safe. I encourage anyone who has been in a similar position to come forward to report these incidents to the police. It is never too late to seek justice – you are not alone and there is help available.’
Sussex police investigator Nicky Beard said: ‘David Clarke has now faced justice for his crimes, but the impact of his offending will last a lifetime.
‘I would once again like to thank all 14 of these incredibly brave and resilient men for reporting to us, supporting this process, and helping hold their abuser to account.
‘We are committed to seeking justice for victims no matter how long ago offending may have taken place.
‘We believe Clarke may have other victims. If you are affected, please do not suffer in silence – report it to us and we will support you and do everything we can to get you justice.’
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