Allegations of Sexual Abuse

False Allegations

Michael Neville case



IRN
November 26 2004

Teacher says nothing sexual in pupil interaction

Horowhenua teacher Michael Neville tells court there was nothing sexual about the way he interacted with pupils

A Horowhenua teacher accused of indecent assault of his pupils says there was never anything sexual about the way he interacted with them.

Michael Neville is on trial on four charges and has given further evidence today at the Palmerston North District Court.

The 48-year-old has denied claims that he touched the girls under their clothing, or patted their buttocks.

Neville told the court while he sometimes patted children's backs or shoulders when praising them, or would occasionally hug a student, there was never anything inappropriate.

He also told the court he often had parent helpers in his class and parents often popped in.