A paedophile taekwondo coach who sexually assaulted two young children in their home and group classes has been jailed for nine years.
Diego Solarte, 44, carried out the string of sickening attacks on two children he instructed between 2018 and 2021 and then lied when questioned by police.
Inner London Crown Court heard how Solarte, of Studley Road, Stockwell, sexually assaulted the first child while employed as a taekwondo instructor by their family.
When he was arrested, he claimed that the victim had made it up because they no longer wanted to do taekwondo.
A second girl then came forward while the first investigation was still active after telling her school counsellor Solarte had touched her inappropriately.
When Solarte was arrested again in May 2022, he once again claimed he had never carried out the attacks and had no sexual interest in children.
But jurors saw through the lies after hearing of the grooming, manipulation and betrayal experienced by the young victims.
In a statement issued via the Met Police, the family of the children praised officers for how they handled the case, in particular investigating officer Detective Constable Mel Jordan.
“We are eternally grateful to the officers who worked tirelessly to bring justice for our children,” they said.
“We would encourage anyone who is in a similar situation of being a victim, supporting a victim or being a witness of abuse to come forward to the police.
“In a truly dark moment of our children’s lives, Detective Constable Jordan’s compassion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of the truth gave us a way forwards.
“The abuse our children have experienced has left a wound that will never fully heal, but knowing that justice has been served, and there are incredible officers protecting the safety of others, brings us comfort.”
DC Jordan said the case would have shaken both the local and taekwondo community.
“I want to acknowledge the bravery of the victim-survivors, whose courage has been unwavering throughout this process, especially considering their young age,” she said.
“Coming forward is not only a tribute to their strength, but serves as a sign to any other victims that they will be listened to and supported.
“Solarte used his position and trust of the victims’ families to take advantage of young girls in both in public classes and private settings, where they should have been at their safest.”
