Teacher charged with sexual abuse of student in Belfast

Judith Evans, a 33-year-old teacher from Belfast Boys' Model School, has been charged with multiple sexual offences against a male student. The charges, which span from March 1 to May 17, include engaging in sexual activity with a minor, possessing indecent images, and perverting the course of justice. Evans appeared at Belfast Crown Court, where she denied all allegations and claimed to be a victim in the encounters. Her legal team is seeking forensic and psychiatric evaluations ahead of the trial set for November 4. The court proceedings revealed that Evans allegedly communicated with the pupil for sexual gratification and engaged in inappropriate touching. She faces serious accusations, including grooming and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. The judge emphasized the importance of open justice, denying requests to conceal Evans' identity despite her lawyers' concerns about mental health and potential prejudice to the case. In addition to the sexual abuse charges, Evans is accused of making a false allegation of sexual assault against the boy, which is considered an attempt to obstruct justice. Her solicitor argued that Evans is also a complainant in the case, complicating the legal narrative surrounding the events. As the trial approaches, the case has garnered significant media attention, raising questions about the responsibilities of educators and the protection of minors in educational settings. The outcome of the trial will likely have implications for both Evans and the broader community regarding trust in educational institutions.