Peter Turner, 65, of Redoubt Road, Eastbourne has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for sexually assaulting a young boy during the 1990s. The man, a former teacher and football referee, abused his position of trust to assault his victim in various locations, including a school classroom, his office, and his home. He also ingratiated himself with the boy’s family to gain closer access and conceal his actions. The assaults, which occurred over several months, were related to his roles as a teacher and a school football team manager.
The case came to light in 2016 when the victim reported to the police, leading to a complex investigation. This involved the forensic examination of over 70 electronic devices from the man’s home. He was charged in 2022 with seven counts of indecent assault on a boy under 14 and was found guilty on all counts.
At the sentencing, the judge condemned the man’s actions, highlighting the betrayal of trust inherent in his role as a teacher and the impact on the victim and the community. The man will also be on the sex offenders’ register for life.
Police Constable Steve Hargrave said: “I would like to pay testament to the faith and strength shown by the victim to stay committed to this process during the length of this investigation.
“Sussex Police takes all allegations of this nature extremely seriously and will investigate them fully, no matter how long ago the offences occurred.
“I hope this significant jail sentence provides Peter Turner’s victim with some measure of closure as he looks to move on with his life.”
