Rebecca Joynes, a former high-achieving teacher in Greater Manchester, has been sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison for child sex offences. Her actions were exposed after relationships with two 15-year-old students came to light.
Joynes first initiated contact with Boy A by giving him her phone number, which led to meetings facilitated through social media. They were later seen on CCTV at Trafford Centre, eventually returning to her flat in Salford where illegal activities occurred.
Lies and manipulation defined her relationship with Boy B as well. Despite being suspended, she formed a second illicit relationship, which resulted in further charges.
During the investigation, Joynes was arrested twice, and ultimately convicted at Manchester Crown Court. The trial highlighted the power dynamics and gender biases concerning male victims of sexual abuse.
Joynes was found guilty of multiple offences. The Greater Manchester Police criticized public comments that trivialized the crimes, emphasizing the seriousness of the offences and their impact on victims.
Critics noted a severe lack of support for male victims. Boy B particularly expressed the challenges faced due to gender biases in services available.
The detective handling the case highlighted the need to acknowledge that women can also be perpetrators of such crimes, urging other victims to come forward.