Ex-Portsmouth Teacher Caught with Cocaine Planning to Sell
David Thorn, a 30-year-old maths teacher at Portsmouth Academy, was arrested in April 2019 caught red-handed with Class A drugs. He admitted having cocaine with the intent to sell it.
Spared Jail but Faces Career Fallout
In August 2019, Thorn was handed an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. He was also ordered to pay £200 in costs and a £140 victim surcharge. The teaching professional revealed he took cocaine during school holidays but insisted it was only for personal use.
Teacher’s Regret – But Not Before Breaking Trust
Thorn initially told the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) he bought cocaine from a dealer just for himself. However, the dealer left him with more cocaine, cash, and a mobile phone — indicating intentions beyond personal use.
“His behaviour fell significantly short of the standards expected of the profession,” said the TRA.
Sarah Buxcey from the TRA confirmed Thorn can apply to have his teaching registration reinstated in four years, a decision reflecting the seriousness of his actions.
Portsmouth Academy Acts Swiftly
A spokesperson from Portsmouth Academy said,
“As soon as we were made aware of this matter, we suspended the individual and then dismissed him. Clearly, his behaviour was not only inappropriate but also illegal and fell far short of the standards we expect.”
Thorn’s career in education is now on hold as he serves a suspended sentence and faces a lengthy ban from teaching.
