CPS News Brief

Statement from the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding Eleanor de Freitas

The Director of Public Prosecutions, Alison Saunders said:

"I am very saddened by the tragic death of Eleanor de Freitas. I have asked the team which dealt with this case for a full explanation which addresses all of the de Freitas family's concerns. I appreciate the family's unease which is why I am looking at this personally in order to satisfy myself of the detail surrounding all the stages of the case. I would welcome the opportunity then to meet with Eleanor's family to discuss the case and the law surrounding it. 

"Prosecuting cases of perverting the course of justice in connection with an alleged false rape allegation is rare, extremely difficult and always complex and sensitive. This case was one of the most difficult I have seen. To say any more at this stage would be inappropriate until I can answer the de Freitas family's concerns fully and directly."

 

Prep school teacher jailed for 42 child sexual offences

At Chester Crown Court today [Thursday, 6 November], Keith Cavendish-Coulson was jailed for six years and nine months after pleading guilty to 42 counts of indecent assault on boys under the age of 14, contrary to section 15(1) of the Sexual Offences Act 1956.

Alison Mutch, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS Mersey-Cheshire, said: “Keith Cavendish-Coulson presented himself as a friendly and approachable teacher and tutor in order to carry out a string of sexual offences against the pupils in his care.

“He used this position of authority to target young boys who trusted their teachers and were often living far away from home.   

“Most of the offences happened over a two year period between 1973 and 1975 when he indecently assaulted 24 young boys in the classrooms and dormitories of the preparatory school where he taught French. One further victim was sexually assaulted while Cavendish-Coulson was his private tutor.

“His offending has had a profound effect on his many victims. The compelling evidence in the case left Keith Cavendish-Coulson with little option but to plead guilty. I am pleased that this spared the victims from having to give evidence against him.”