The parents of a boy, who claim he was sexually abused by his high school teacher, have today contacted the New South Wales Police Minister, hoping the case will be reopened.
Cherina and Rob Gray from the state’s north west say they want fresh eyes on the police investigation and have emailed Police Minister Yasmin Catley’s office, requesting an urgent meeting.
The Department of Education yesterday sacked teacher Annabel Doust.
The former principal’s name has also been placed on the department’s not to be employed list after its investigation found she crossed professional boundaries with Dean Gray when he was a 17-year-old student at Narrabri High School and engaged in a sexual relationship with him in 2013.
“Justice has almost been served”, according to Dean’s parents.
Mr Gray telling NBN News today, “it’s not really a win because we still have a lot to process over time and there are still a lot of unanswered questions.”
While grieving mother Cherina said “We’d like to see it (the police investigation) reopened because the education department has actually confirmed or verified that they identify a sexual relationship’s taken place.”
It’s seven long, painful years since they first complained to the Education Department and New South Wales Police and it’s taken its toll.
“I don’t think any family should have to go through what we went through.”
In 2021, the Gray family was struck by tragedy, when Dean drowned in the Namoi River while on a camping trip with friends.
Then came more incomprehensible pain. Cherina stumbling upon thousands of old messages on his Facebook account from the teacher, who was 49 at the time. Dean was 17.
The messages confirming what they had suspected for years.
Mr Gray says “It’s been traumatising for Cherina because she’s done all the ground work.”
Among the exchanges online:
(TEACHER) Hey there – I just marked multiple choice. U & a couple of others got 11/15 & that was the top score so great start.
(TEACHER) It comes as no surprise to me that all the girls would like you. I’m so jealous they can just call you and say ‘come over’
(DEAN) I’m not interested in any of them. Only you.
(TEACHER) I so love you
(DEAN) Your my girl
(TEACHER VO) Yes I am
(DEAN) Miss?
(TEACHER) But don’t u think that makes me sound a bit paedophily (sic)?
(DEAN) Marry me?
(TEACHER) Ok. when I get out of jail for corrupting you.
No criminal charges have ever been laid against Annabel Doust – nor is she facing any.
Dean’s parents also now want her banned from ALL schools – public AND private.
The Department of Education says the safety and welfare of children and young people is of paramount concern and it has robust policies and procedures in place for their care and protection.
The department also confirmed an initial investigation by their Professional and Ethical Standards Directorate started in December 2016 and concluded in May 2018. Appropriate action was taken in line with available information.
A second investigation started in April 2022 when new evidence was presented and has now concluded.
