The trial of a former Hertfordshire teacher accused of committing sexual offences against a pupil in the 1990s is under way at St Albans Crown Court. Deborah Franklin, 65, of Radlett, denies eight counts of gross indecency relating to a boy under the age of 14 between 1991 and 1995.
Allegations and court testimony
Prosecutors say the alleged offending took place while the boy was a pupil at a preparatory school in the county. The prosecution has told the court that the complainant gave evidence he was as young as 10 when some of the incidents occurred and described behaviour he said took place during lessons and private tutoring sessions.
"[The complainant] told the court that Franklin had sexual intercourse with him and that she 'would tickle him while he was naked.'"
Those details were summarised in court reporting. The allegations were first disclosed to police in March 2024, following which an investigation led to charges being brought.
Legal background and procedural steps
Franklin was charged under the Indecency with Children Act 1960, the legislation in force at the time the alleged offences are said to have occurred. That Act was later replaced by the Sexual Offences Act 2003. She appeared at St Albans Magistrates' Court on 10 April 2025 where she entered pleas of not guilty and was granted unconditional bail.
- Defendant: Deborah Franklin, aged 65, of Radlett.
- Allegations: eight counts of gross indecency with a boy under 14 between 1991–1995.
- First police report: March 2024; magistrates' plea hearing: 10 April 2025.
- Current status: trial commenced at St Albans Crown Court; proceedings ongoing.
What this means locally
Historic abuse allegations in school settings continue to cause concern across communities. Cases of this kind can take many months in court as witnesses give evidence and legal arguments are heard. The trial will determine whether the prosecution can prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt. No sentence will follow unless there is a conviction.
| Key date | Event |
|---|---|
| 1991–1995 | Period in which offences are alleged to have occurred |
| March 2024 | Allegations reported to police |
| 10 April 2025 | Plea hearing at St Albans Magistrates' Court |
| July 2026 | Trial underway at St Albans Crown Court |
The defendant was noted as leaving court in dark sunglasses and a headscarf at the earlier hearing. The trial is continuing and further reporting will follow as the court process unfolds.
If you have information relevant to the case or concerns about safeguarding in local schools you should contact Hertfordshire Constabulary or your local authority’s safeguarding team.
