Berkeley Vale: Former St John Ambulance trainer Kevin Thomas blamed being gay for sexually abusing teen boys

A St John Ambulance trainer and one-time superintendent blamed being gay for sexually abusing two teenagers in the mid-1990s at a time when homosexuality was “a big no, no”, a court has heard.

St John Ambulance trainer Kevin John Thomas, now aged 72, of East Ryde, has pleaded guilty to eight counts of sexually abusing two young boys in the mid 1990s. (Supplied picture circa 1995)

A St John Ambulance trainer and one-time superintendent blamed being gay for sexually abusing two teenagers in the mid-1990s at a time when homosexuality was “a big no, no”, a court has heard.

Appearing via video from custody, Kevin John Thomas faced a sentence hearing at Gosford District Court on Friday after pleading guilty to eight charges of aggravated indecent assault, sexual intercourse with a child and attempted sexual intercourse with a child.

The 72-year-old also admitted his guilt in three further similar offences, which will be taken into account when he is dealt with.

Thomas, of East Ryde, was a one-time St John Ambulance superintendent who took a role training first aid to cadets around Berkeley Vale and Ourimbah in the mid-90s.

The court heard Thomas “grew fond” of two boys in particular who he sexually abused at his then home in Ourimbah, in his car at secluded locations such as Chittaway Point and at a unit he owned in Enmore, Sydney.

Thomas was a St John Ambulance cadet trainer in the mid-90s who sexually abused two boys.

The two victims, who are grown men now, provided victim impact statements in a closed court.

Giving evidence, Thomas said he was deeply ashamed and also apologised to the victims’ families and mothers, who put their trust in him as a trainer and helped with fundraising.

“I’m absolutely devastated, particularly after hearing both of their [victim impact] reports,” Thomas said.

Thomas gave evidence in Gosford District Court. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Swift

“They were both great guys, they both put their heart and soul into the first aid side of it.

“I will remember it as long as I have life in me. I thank both of you for forgiving me, I will never be able to forgive myself.

“Just remember it was nothing to do with you being ... wrong, it was me.”

Thomas said he himself had been sexually abused as a young teenager and was struggling with his homosexuality.

He was aged about 42-43 at the time while his two victims were between 13-15.

Thomas taught first aid to cadets on the Central Coast.

“I was gay but it’s not like it is now. Back then being gay was a big no, no,” he said.

In cross examination he agreed that he told a psychologist he became fond of the two boys and “went too far” but conceded that description was a gross understatement.

“Yes, it has to be,” he said

Thomas said his health was failing, the offending happened 30 years ago and he has “no interest in sex” anymore.

His barrister told the court Thomas’ had done the “honourable thing in the most abhorrent circumstances” by pleading guilty and apologising “emphatically” from the outset.

After hearing his evidence, the Crown prosecutor said the court could find Thomas had demonstrated remorse.

Judge Tanya Bright will give her remarks on sentence next Wednesday, October 23.