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A boarding school teacher described by police as a “predator of the worst kind” is facing years in jail for sexually abusing six vulnerable children online.
Sam Phillips, 28, admitted to 38 offences committed between December 2023 and February this year in north London.
His crimes included over 20 counts of causing or inciting a girl aged 13 to engage in sexual activity, alongside further charges of online communication and making indecent images.
Phillips taught at a £23,400-a-year school from September 2017 until he was suspended and then resigned in March 2021.
In late January 2024, Metropolitan Police officers in north-west London were contacted with serious concerns regarding the welfare of a child who had potentially been sexually exploited.
They uncovered that two additional children had also been groomed by Phillips, of Hillcroome Road, Sutton.
He manipulated them online by sending money in exchange for inappropriate images, Harrow Crown Court heard on Wednesday.
Detectives traced payments to Phillips’ bank account and he was arrested on March 11.
Initially, the paedophile was charged with 11 offences involving three children.
But further analysis of his phone and financial records revealed more victims, leading to the total of 38 charges.
Chief Superintendent Sara Leach said: “Phillips is a predator of the worst kind, preying on innocent, vulnerable children for his own gratification.
“The scale of his offending is both appalling and heartbreaking, and no child should ever have to endure the trauma these young victims have suffered.
“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the children and their families who had the courage to come forward.
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“It is impossible to imagine the pain and fear they have experienced, but their bravery has allowed us to hold this dangerous individual to account.
“I am pleased Phillips has pleaded guilty, it is a testament to the strength and diligence of the case that Met officers have built. This outcome reflects our unwavering commitment to bringing sexual abusers to justice and ensuring that victims are heard and protected.”
Acting Detective Sergeant Maria Giannakidou, who worked on the case, added: “We commend the incredible bravery of the survivors who have come forward.
“It is through their courage that we are able to bring these deeply serious charges forward.
“Their strength in sharing their experiences is invaluable in holding those responsible to account, and we are committed to ensuring that victim voices are heard.”
Phillips will be sentenced at a later date.
