Taekwondo coach jailed for multiple sex crimes against young children following MET investigation

South London detectives led a meticulous investigation into the sexual abuse of two young girls, who did not know each other, by a Taekwondo coach who attacked the children in their own homes and during group lessons.

Following a trial at Inner London Crown Court, Diego Solarte, 44 (21.02.1980) of Studley Road, Stockwell, was sentenced to nine years in prison on Thursday 7 November for his sex crimes against children. The horrific nature of these crimes, which took place between 2018 and 2021, have left a profound impact on the victims, their families and the wider community.

The court heard heartbreaking testimony revealing the grooming, manipulation and betrayal experienced by these young individuals who sought sports mentorship from someone in a position of trust. Their courage in coming forward has been critical in ensuring that justice is served.

Detective Inspector Mel Jordan, of the Met’s Child Abuse Team, who led the investigation, said:

“I want to recognize the bravery of the victim-survivors, whose courage has been steadfast throughout this process, especially considering their young ages. Coming forward is not only a tribute to their strength, but also serves as a sign to any other victims that they will be listened to and supported.

“Solarte used its position and trust in the victims’ families to abuse young girls, both in public classrooms and in private settings, where they should have been safest.

“We understand that this case will have shocked the local and Taekwondo community. Protecting children is our top priority. If you or someone you know has been groomed or sexually abused, please come forward. You are not alone, and there are officers ready to support you.”

The first victim-survivor came forward while Solarte was employed by the family as a Taekwondo instructor. In September 2021, she reported serious sexual violence to the police.

Shortly after Solarte was arrested and interviewed by specialist Met detectives, he said the children no longer wanted to do Taekwondo and that they had made up the accusation so they no longer had to do it.

A second victim-survivor bravely came forward to police while the initial investigation was still ongoing.

She reported to her school counselor that Solarte had touched her inappropriately.

Arrested for a second time on May 30, 2022, Solarte was interviewed by police and said the victim had fabricated the sexual abuse accusation against him. In interviews with specially trained Met detectives, Solarte stated that he had never touched the victim inappropriately and that he had no sexual interest in children.

The families of the victim-survivors issued a joint statement:

“We are eternally grateful to the officers who worked tirelessly to bring justice for our children. We encourage anyone who is in a similar situation as a victim, supporter of a victim or witness of abuse to report to the police.

“At a truly dark time in our children’s lives, Detective Jordan’s compassion, dedication and relentless pursuit of the truth have given us a path forward. The abuse our children experienced has left a wound that will never fully heal, but knowing that justice has been done and that there are incredible officers out there keeping others safe brings us comfort.

“Detective Constable Jordan not only sought justice, but created a platform for our children to have a voice and speak out against abuse. We sincerely thank each member of the team and the lead investigator, Detective Mel Jordan, for their work and professionalism during this ordeal.”

Children and young people are the most vulnerable in society, and the Met is doing everything we can to keep them safe in person and online. As part of the New Met for London plan, our officers are working closely with third sector partners including The Children’s Association to help young people, parents and carers recognize the signs of sexual abuse and predatory behavior online and offline.

If you have been the victim of sexual assault or rape or have information about a perpetrator, please contact police in an emergency on 101 or 999. There are specially trained officers who will listen and investigate where necessary.