Ex-Buddhist Monk Jailed Again Over Historic Sex Crimes
A former Buddhist monk, Koji Takeuchi—once known as Buddha Maitreya—has been slammed with fresh convictions for historic sexual offences against two girls in Sussex and Nottinghamshire.
Repeat Offender with a Dark Past
Takeuchi, 82, was first convicted in 2020 for abusing a young girl in Brighton during the 1970s and early 1980s. Already behind bars serving a four-year sentence, new victims came forward with shocking allegations.
On September 21, Takeuchi admitted further charges at Hove Crown Court. He confessed to indecent assault on a 12-year-old girl in Brighton during the 1970s and another 12-year-old girl in Nottinghamshire in the 1980s.
Trust Betrayed in Meditation and Gardens
Judge Jeremy Gold QC blasted Takeuchi for abusing his position of trust to commit these crimes.
Detective Constable Stewart Cameron from Sussex Police’s Safeguarding Unit revealed the twisted ruse behind the offences.
“Takeuchi travelled the country teaching meditation and owned a famous Japanese garden in Nottinghamshire, featured on TV and visited by thousands yearly. But he used this to hide the sexual abuse of young girls. He gained their families’ trust to carry out his crimes,” said DC Cameron.
Sentenced for Life, Restrictions Stay
Takeuchi, formerly of Trent Lane, North Clifton near Newark, Nottinghamshire, is now serving an extended prison term after receiving an extra two years for the new offences. He remains a registered sex offender for life.
A Sexual Harm Prevention Order will block him from accessing children once released.
DC Cameron praised the bravery of the victims who came forward after the first conviction.
“This investigation shows we pursue justice regardless of how long ago events occurred. Takeuchi’s crimes had a devastating impact, but victims’ courage helps us hold offenders to account.”
