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Tasmanian police preparing report for DPP on Hutchins abuse claims
news.com.au
PROSECUTORS are considering whether to lay charges against a former teacher from the Hutchins School who was accused of sexually abusing boys during the 1960s. Ronald Thomas was named by two ex-students during a public hearing in Hobart of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. Former police commissioner Richard McCreadie gave evidence that he had questioned former principal David Ralph Lawrence and Mr Thomas — a former music teacher — about sexual abuse. Both were thought to have died. Mr Thomas, however, was discovered living in retirement in New Zealand. Police took statements from two former students last month before travelling to New Zealand to speak with Mr Thomas. “They have now returned ... and will prepare a report for the Director of Public Prosecutions,” a police spokeswoman said. Mr Thomas, 77, has publicly denied the claims made against him. Counsel assisting the Royal Commission, Angus Stewart, SC, told the commission last month that because of the Tasmania Police investigation into claims of sexual abuse by former Hutchins music teacher Ronald Thomas, there would be no further inquiries on claims made against him by the commission nor any findings made in relation to him. Six former Hutchins students gave evidence at the Hobart hearings in November and December, alleging multiple incidents of abuse at the hands of several teachers, including then headmaster David Lawrence. The school has apologised to the victims of abuse. Relationships Australia is offering support for people affected by the hearings. Call 1300 364 277 or contact the Sexual Assault Support Service on 6231 1811. Originally published as Police prepare report on abuse claims
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