Robert Gould

Robert Gould, a 74-year-old former teacher and youth group leader, was convicted at Northampton Crown Court of 29 sexual offences against 14 boys. The offences, which occurred between 1971 and 1987, included multiple counts of indecent assault and gross indecency with boys under 14, as well as serious sexual offences against boys under 16. Gould was found guilty following a trial, while he was cleared of one further count of indecent assault.

The court heard that the abuse took place primarily during school hours at South End Junior School in Rushden, as well as at a local church and on a school trip. The investigation began in 2021 after a survivor made an online report, leading to further victims coming forward to provide evidence.

On 26 March 2025, Judge David Herbert KC sentenced Gould to 26 years in prison for his crimes.