Thomas Waller, an 18-year-old nursery worker, has been sentenced to 10 years in detention for raping and sexually abusing two boys aged three at a Surrey nursery. The sentencing at Guildford Crown Court follows his conviction for rape, two counts of causing or inciting sexual activity, and taking indecent photographs.
Waller committed the crimes between July and August 2024, within weeks of starting his job at the unnamed private nursery. Judge Claire Harden-Frost told him: «It's heartbreaking that one of the effects of your actions is that the parents of your victims feel responsible.» He will serve an additional five years on licence after his detention.
Parents' devastating statements
The families described the profound trauma inflicted on their children. Child D's father told the court his son had «gathered a collection of memories that I would never wish on a human being.» He added: «We should be telling them that he doesn't like carrots, not that he has been raped.»
Child T's mother expressed fear for her son's future: «I fear that one day (Child T's) memories of what happened might return again. It could have an impact for the rest of his life.» She described Waller's actions as «deliberate and calculated.»
Nursery and authorities respond
The unnamed nursery stated it was «deeply shocked, saddened and sorry» about the former staff member's actions. The facility confirmed it took «immediate action, contacting the police without delay, suspending the individual concerned, and fully co-operating with the investigation.»
Jonathan Hulley, Surrey County Council cabinet member for children, families and lifelong learning, said: «I am appalled by the crimes committed by Thomas Waller and extend my deepest sympathies to the children and families affected.» The council supported safeguarding partners and Ofsted in their regulatory actions following the disclosures.
Rebecca Millardship of the Crown Prosecution Service described the case as «one of the worst nightmares imaginable for a parent.» She stated Waller «carefully planned his attacks on these three-year-old boys, deliberately isolating them from anyone else.»
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
