Adam Sherwood, a 57-year-old former teacher from Birmingham, has been sentenced to two years and six months in prison for sexually assaulting two boys while working as a private tutor. The offences occurred in 2019 and 2023 at his home in Moseley, Birmingham, and at a climbing centre in the city.
Abuse of Trust
Sherwood provided weekly English and maths tuition to one boy at his home, where he touched the child inappropriately over an extended period. The abuse only came to light when the victim informed his parents. During police interview, Sherwood lied and denied the touching was sexual, instead blaming the boy's behaviour and claiming he was merely trying to get him to sit still.
He also inappropriately touched another boy under the age of 13 at a climbing centre in Birmingham. Sherwood again denied the sexual nature of the contact, asserting he had reacted as the boy was about to kick him in the face while climbing.
Conviction and Sentencing
Following a trial in March, Sherwood was found guilty of four counts of sexual touching of a boy under the age of 13. He returned to Birmingham Crown Court on June 19 for sentencing, where he received a prison term of two years and six months. He was also placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for life.
DC Sarah Toye, from the Complex Child Abuse Investigation team, led the investigation. She stated: "Sherwood was in a position of trust which he took full advantage of to gain access to assault his victims. We are pleased he is now behind bars where he can reflect on his actions. I would like to also praise the two boys who showed such bravery throughout the investigation and court process where both attended to give evidence."
Police Praise for Victims
West Midlands Police commended the courage of the two young victims, who gave evidence during the trial. The investigation was part of a broader effort to tackle child sexual abuse in the region.
