Music Teacher Groomed and Abused Schoolgirls in West London
Ben Breakwell, 40, from Monkgate, York, was found guilty on Monday 2 August at Isleworth Crown Court. The ex-music teacher now faces sentencing on a date yet to be set. He’s been remanded in custody.
Exploiting His Position: Abuse Spanning Years
Between 2014 and 2017, Breakwell preyed on his young pupils while working at a west London school. He sexually abused three girls aged 13 to 16 and collected indecent images of a fourth. During trial, a chilling pattern emerged showing how he groomed his victims.
- Two girls were sucked into full sexual relationships at just 13 and 14 years old.
- A third was targeted with flattery and supportive messages before Breakwell kissed her during class.
The victim who was kissed was so distressed she told her friends and mother, who confronted Breakwell. He denied the kiss was deliberate. The girl felt guilty for giving him sweets as a thank you, fearing she had encouraged him—and was scared to report him without proof. No formal complaint followed.
School Alerted, Police Step In
In September 2017, friends of one victim reported suspicions to school staff. Breakwell was immediately suspended and police launched an investigation. By November 2017, he was arrested after officers found indecent images of an overseas victim on his computer. That girl and her family were traced and spoken to.
Breakwell denied all allegations during questioning. But in February 2020 he was charged with multiple sexual offences.
Detective Calls Out ‘Deceptive Sexual Predator’
“My thoughts are with the young girls who were betrayed by Breakwell. Their courage in speaking out has brought him to justice,” said Detective Constable Ben Lawrence-Smith.
“He deceived and abused these girls, manipulating them until some felt they were the ones at fault. As a teacher, this is a gross betrayal of trust.”
“Breakwell led his victims to believe they were in love with him, making them less likely to speak up. We urge anyone who suspects someone is at risk to report it immediately.”
“There may be more victims yet to come forward. If you or someone you know has been affected, please contact police. Specially trained officers are ready to help and bring offenders to justice.”
