An 87-year-old retired teacher from Forest Hill has admitted to the sexual abuse of two young boys, spanning decades and involving more than 50 separate incidents.
Geoffrey Dolamore, who spent his career teaching at schools across London and later worked as a director for a children’s charity in Greenwich and Lewisham, pleaded guilty to 13 charges relating to the abuse at a Woolwich Crown Court hearing last month.
Dolamore first abused a young boy during the 1970s, and then went on to target a second child in more recent years, repeatedly sexually assaulting him or causing him to engage in sexual activity.
Convictions Previously Withheld
Until now, the media had been legally restricted from reporting the convictions in order to avoid prejudicing a separate jury in connection with additional allegations Dolamore faced involving adults. These additional charges have now been dropped, allowing the convictions to be reported for the first time.
Some of the dropped allegations involved sexual activity with the second victim after he turned 16, with Dolamore claiming the acts had become consensual—a claim prosecutors declined to pursue in light of the earlier guilty pleas.
Prosecution Accepts Guilty Pleas
On Monday, April 14, prosecutor Katrina Charles confirmed in court that, following “lengthy conferences and meetings” with the victims, the Crown Prosecution Service had decided to accept Dolamore’s guilty pleas and cancel the planned trial.
Dolamore also admitted to three counts of possessing indecent images of children, with six photos found in his possession.
Judge Warns of Imminent Custody
Presiding over the case, Judge Ben Gumpert KC issued a stark warning to Dolamore:
“You must expect, as Judge Aubrey told you last time, that the only reasonable outcome on the information we have at the moment is that you will be sent to prison immediately.
Don’t get your hopes up that this will be a miracle cure, but it can only do you good.”
The judge ordered a pre-sentence report, although he made clear that it was unlikely to change the outcome.
Dolamore Released on Bail Until Sentencing
Despite the seriousness of the offences, Dolamore has been released on bail and will remain free until his sentencing in June. The decision has already drawn public criticism from campaigners who argue that individuals convicted of serial child abuse should be immediately remanded in custody.
Trusted Position Betrayed
The case has sent shockwaves through the local community. Dolamore, once entrusted with the care and development of children, held positions of authority and influence both in education and the charity sector.
Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of further victims and have urged anyone with information to come forward.
If you or someone you know has been affected by child abuse, support is available through the NSPCC Helpline at 0808 800 5000 or by visiting www.nspcc.org.uk.
