Music tutor facing teen boy sex charges

​Robert James Briscoe appeared in court yesterday charged with eight separate charges.

The 48-year-old has now been suspended from his job with the Education Authority (EA), a judge was told.

Briscoe, with an address at Seamount in Belfast, faces two counts of human trafficking to exploit the teenager, paying sexual services of a child, and a further attempt to pay for sexual services.

He is also accused of administering a substance with sexual intent, possessing class A methamphetamine with intent to supply, and having a separate quantity of class B drugs.

The alleged offences were committed on dates between September 30, 2025 and March 10 this year.

Briscoe’s work for the EA involved acting as a peripatetic brass tutor in schools across the city.

He also helped to run the City of Belfast Youth Orchestra and was a director at music at Helen’s Bay Presbyterian Church.

In a further role, he worked as a freelance travel consultant on music tours for schools and colleges throughout the United Kingdom.

There is no connection between the alleged victim and any positions held by Briscoe.

Appearing for the first time at Belfast Magistrates’ Court, he confirmed that he understood the charges against him.

An investigating detective said he could connect him to all of the alleged offences.

Defence solicitor Adrian Harvey indicated that his client’s job with the EA could now be in further jeopardy.

“Mr Briscoe’s current employer will more than likely take a certain course,” he predicted.

“He’s on a precautionary suspension at the minute, but I think it’s inevitable following today’s hearing what will happen.”

Releasing the defendant on continuing bail, District Judge Anne Marshall banned him from contacting the injured party or anyone else aged under 18.

She also imposed a further prohibition on having any device which can access the internet.