Music teacher jailed for sex offences against students

Gisborne teacher and music tutor Stephen Shone has been sent to prison for 8½ years for sex offences against five of his teenage pupils.

Shone, 30, appeared for sentence in Gisborne District Court yesterday after having been convicted in August at a trial held in Napier.

He was convicted on one charge of sexual violation by unlawful sexual connection, 10 charges of indecent assault, and one of unlawful sexual connection.

Defence counsel Adam Simperingham said it was accepted Shone's conduct was inappropriate but he would be appealing the sentence on the basis it was "manifestly excessive".

The "complicity" of the complainants was another issue, he said.

At sentencing, Judge Mike Behrens said he would find it difficult to "restrain myself" at any suggestion of proper consent being granted by the complainants.

Mr Simperingham said Shone lacked remorse, which was a reflection of his personality.

Shone was of good character, without previous convictions and his career was ruined by the prospect of years in prison, he said.

Judge Behrens said Shone had been abusing girls for at least two years before he sexually violated a 14-year-old girl at his home for a a music lesson in November 2006.

Five counts of indecent assault against a 13-year-old girl were representative charges committed many times over six months, the judge said.

Shone had exploited their age differences and breached her trust.

"He told the complainant she was beautiful, that he loved her, that they could have a baby together and make music together."

He also pleaded guilty to indecently assaulting a 15-year-old girl but entered his guilty plea after the girl had given evidence.

Shone received concurrent sentences for other offences against three complainants, bringing the total to 8½ years.

Detective Sergeant Steve Smith, of Gisborne police, said the sentence was a good and fair one.

Shone had shown no remorse and four of the five complainants had given evidence.

- NZPA