Sydney teacher jailed after grooming case defies ‘just a kiss’ defense
A former school teacher in Sydney has been ordered to serve additional time in custody after his bid to avoid incarceration failed. Vasilious Kafataris, 57, was found guilty of grooming a 15-year-old student for sex in 2014 and admitted to sexual touching involving a different student seven years later. The court rejected his attempt to minimize the seriousness of the offences by claiming the conduct amounted to nothing more than a kiss.
The courtroom verdict and the judge’s reasoning
In Downing Centre District Court, Judge Phillip Mahony dismissed Kafataris’ argument that the six months spent on remand should be treated as punishment rather than time already served. The judge highlighted the breach of trust inherent in a teacher-student relationship, noting that Kafataris supervised the student in sports and after-school activities. He also pointed to gifts, such as cigarettes and $50 notes, as part of the grooming behaviour that crossed professional boundaries.
Grooming charges and the impact on the victim
The grooming charge related to a 2014 incident involving the 15-year-old student, during which Kafataris reportedly telephoned the student late at night and performed inappropriate acts in an attempt to solicit sexual contact. The judge emphasized that even though this student was not directly taught by him in the classroom, the nature of his role as a coach and mentor amplified his responsibility toward the student’s well-being and safety.
Consent, ‘cultural’ excuses rejected
Regarding the 2014 and 2021-era sexual touching offences involving a different student, Kafataris had described kissing as a simple gesture of greeting, arguing it was not illegal and part of his cultural norms. The court rejected this justification, noting that in one episode he called the student back as she was walking away, indicating intent beyond a casual exchange.
The sentences and their implications
Following the conviction, Kafataris received a sentence of 15 months in prison, with a non-parole period backdated to April. He is eligible for release in July 2026. Additionally, for the sexual touching offences, he received an 11-month community corrections order. The judge underscored that the combined offences warranted more than remand time, given the breach of trust and the age difference of more than 30 years between the teacher and his victims.
Reactions and broader context
The case has drawn attention to the responsibilities teachers owe to students, especially those in vulnerable age groups. Advocates of student safety stress the need for clear boundaries and robust reporting mechanisms to counter any attempts to justify inappropriate conduct as harmless “culture” or routine gestures. This ruling reinforces the principle that even non-classroom interactions can carry significant legal and ethical consequences when a teacher holds a position of authority.
What comes next
As Kafataris begins serving his term with a portion set for release in mid-2026, officials and educators may review training and safeguarding measures to prevent similar cases. The court’s decision reflects a concerted effort to balance personal accountability with the protections required in schools. Communities seeking to safeguard students can take reassurance that the justice system remains vigilant against grooming and sexual misconduct involving educators.
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