School worker jailed for sexually abusing autistic boy aged under 16

26 July 2024 , 21:49

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School worker jailed for sexually abusing autistic boy aged under 16

Acasia Welburn pleaded guilty to three charges of sexual activity with child by person in a position of trust

A school worker has been jailed for sexually abusing an autistic boy who was under 16 at the time, police said.

Acasia Welburn, now 26, had been working at a school in North Yorkshire in a “trusted care position” when she abused the child. 

Welburn messaged the boy on social media and began sharing sexual messages and images. She then began to meet the teenager on a regular basis for sexual intercourse in her car and flat, which North Yorkshire police described as “a shocking string of abuse”.

Welburn, from Telford, Shropshire, pleaded guilty to three charges of sexual activity with a child by a person in a position of trust. She was sentenced to two and a half years in prison at York crown court on Friday.

DC Alison Morris, of North Yorkshire police, said: “I cannot commend the victim enough for their incredible courage and determination that they have shown.

“This is another case which demonstrates it is possible for victims to seek and receive justice.

“We would encourage anyone who has been affected by any offending to make contact with the police. You will be supported and listened to.”

Elizabeth Baker