NewsUK NewsCrimePredator David James Clarke, 82, isolated the children in a photography dark room at Newlands Preparatory School, Sussex, in abuse that started almost 50 years ago11:58, 04 Jun 2026Updated 11:59, 04 Jun 2026An evil teacher who raped and sexually abused more than a dozen boys in a school photography dark room will likely die in prison after finally being brought to justice.Peadophile David James Clarke, 82, abused the pupils in his care at Newlands Preparatory School between 1978 until 1989. The former religious education teacher committed more than 40 counts of child sexual abuse while working at the east Sussex private school. Much of the harrowing offending took place in a dark room used for developing photographs.A court heard how 14 children in his care where taken to the room by the teacher as part of a club he ran. A jury heard how Clarke, of Brancaster Staithe, Norfolk, took advantage by isolating the boys , where he began by hugging them and asking them to sit on his lap before progressing to carry out the horrifying acts.He has arrested when police discovered indecent images of children on his computer, before 14 of his brave victims came forward. He was charged with 39 counts of indecent assault, five counts of indecent assault of a child and one count each of buggery of a boy under 16 and making an indecent photograph of a child.Following a month-long trial at Brighton Crown Court, was found guilty of committing 36 counts of indecent assault, five counts of gross indecency with a child and one offence of buggery. The school closed in 2014. The pensioner has been sentenced to 26 years in prison.Claire Brinton, Specialist Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “David James Clarke preyed on 14 children at school, who were vulnerable because of their age, many who were isolated, away from their homes and families.“Clarke was a teacher, in a position of enormous responsibility who exploited them for his own hideous and vile sexual gratification, often using threats and bribes to manipulate his way to abuse numerous boys in his care. “I hope this sentencing send a clear message that the CPS, working closely alongside law enforcement, will relentlessly pursue justice and prosecute those who sexually exploit children and adults, whenever that abuse took place and that Clarke’s imprisonment offers some comfort to the victims’ families and friends. “All children have the right to feel safe. I encourage anyone who has been in a similar position to come forward to report these incidents to the police. It is never too late to seek justice - you are not alone and there is help available.”Article continues belowInvestigator Nicky Beard said: “David Clarke has now faced justice for his crimes, but the impact of his offending will last a lifetime. I would once again like to thank all 14 of these incredibly brave and resilient men for reporting to us, supporting this process and helping hold their accuser to account.“We are committed to seeking justice for victims no matter how long ago offending may have taken place. We believe Clarke may have other victims. If you are affected, please do not suffer in silence – report it to us and we will support you and do everything we can to get you justice.”Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Crime