Anthony Swanson

Anthony Swanson, a 73-year-old martial arts teacher and founder of the Taoist Arts Organisation (TAO) based in Sidcup, UK, has been involved in significant criminal proceedings related to child sex offenses.

Key Facts, Dates, and Court Decisions:

• Charges: Swanson was charged with 28 sexual offenses, including eight counts of rape and six counts of indecent assault, against a girl when she was aged between 13 and 15 in the early 2000s. Later reports indicate he was on trial for 21 child sex offenses.
• Initial Court Appearance: He appeared at Woolwich Crown Court on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, but was not asked to formally enter pleas at that time. The prosecutor, Tim Forster, stated that Swanson was expected to enter not guilty pleas.
• Legal Representation: Samir Moftah, Head of Litigation and Serious Crime at Manak Solicitors, represented Mr. Swanson, stating that a plea of not guilty would be entered and that Swanson denied the allegations.
• Trial Date: A trial date was initially set for late 2025, and later reported as August 2025.
• Guilty Verdict: On July 8, 2026, Tony Swanson was found guilty of 21 child sex offenses at Woolwich Crown Court. He was described as a "predatory paedophile" who abused a child, including raping her in front of her mother.
• Upcoming Hearing: A public court record indicates a hearing for an "Anthony SWANSON" at Woolwich Crown Court on June 11, 2026, at 10:00 AM, and another on June 17, 2026, at 10:30 AM. These appear to be related to the ongoing proceedings.

Swanson taught Tai Chi across various locations in South East London, including Bexley, Lee, and Eltham. He was previously the UK national team coach and a judge for martial arts competitions.