A respected swimming school owner's career has been left in tatters after a moment of shocking violence towards a vulnerable, disabled child was captured on camera.
Louise Levy, 64, who operated a swim school in the Surrey area, was exposed when footage showed her committing a horrifying assault during a lesson. The video evidence, which proved to be her undoing, depicted her grabbing a young girl by the hair and dragging her through the water.
The incident, which occurred at a private pool, was described in Woking Magistrates' Court as a 'loss of control' that was entirely out of character. However, the bench condemned her actions, stating they had crossed the line from discipline into outright violence.
A Trust Broken
The court heard how the young victim, who has disabilities and was described as a nervous swimmer, was left terrified by the ordeal. Her family, who had trusted Levy to provide a safe and supportive environment, were devastated upon seeing the footage.
In a heartbreaking victim impact statement, the child's mother revealed the profound effect the attack had on her daughter, saying the incident had "shattered her confidence" and left her fearful of water.
The Fallout and Sentence
Levy, of Mayford Green in Woking, pleaded guilty to one count of assault by beating. The successful business she had built over years collapsed shortly after the incident came to light.
Magistrates handed down a 12-month community order, mandating 120 hours of unpaid work. She was also ordered to pay £500 in compensation to the victim and £85 in costs. A restraining order was issued to prevent any contact with the child's family for two years.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the immense responsibility held by those entrusted with the care and education of children, particularly the most vulnerable.
