Name suppression for music tutor accused of sexually abusing pupils

Photo / File

A private music tutor has denied accusations that he sexually abused pupils.

The man, in his 20s, was granted name suppression at Auckland District Court on Wednesday after he appeared on three charges of doing an indecent act and one of indecent assault against two alleged victims.

The defendant's lawyer, Richard Keam, applied for name suppression because his client was "psychologically quite fragile" and the identities of the complainants must be protected.

His application was supported by the police, who wanted his name kept secret so their investigation would not be jeopardised. A prosecutor in court indicated there might be more victims.

A 14-year-old boy is understood to have approached police with allegations of offending over a few months at the end of last year.

Outside court, the defendant - who won national awards for his musical talents while a student at a top Auckland school - told NZME. the more serious charge of indecent assault against a 10-year-old student emerged after police began their inquiries.

Court documents allege the offence took place some time last year and that the defendant took a photo of the indecent assault taking place.

The defendant said he believed the allegations regarding the teenager were that he smacked the boy's bottom, something he said the complainant's parents encouraged him to do.

According to court documents, the man lives in an upmarket suburb but he said his family was not wealthy.

"It's the time when I start looking for jobs and then this pops up. It's at a terrible stage in my life right now."

He was remanded on bail under the condition he was never alone with children under the age of 16.