Music teacher at Chelmsford school denies sexual activity with two pupils

Chrisdyer

A music teacher has denied committing three sexual offences against two girls who attended the school where he works.

Kieran Hope, 32, of Keith Avenue, Wickford, appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court this morning charged with one count of sexual activity with a girl aged between 13 and 17 whilst in a position of trust, between September 2012 and May 2013.

He was also charged with two separate counts of sexual assault on two different girls during the same period.

During the 10-minute hearing Hope, wearing a grey suit and white shirt, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, address and indicate through his defence counsel his intention to enter a plea of not guilty.

The court heard there were two different alleged victims, who cannot be named for legal reasons, aged 16 at the time of the offences.

The school the girls attended also cannot be named, but the Chronicle can reveal it was a school in Chelmsford.

Hope was released on bail on the condition he did not make contact with either of the alleged victims.

He will make his next appearance at Chelmsford Crown Court on June 8.

Despite the dry conditions this morning, as Hope left court he erected a big red golf umbrella to hide his face.

Source: essexchronicle