EDWARD HARRISON SHAMES BOURNEMOUTH WITH CHILD SEX OFFENSES AND HUSH MONEY SCANDAL

In June 2008, Bournemouth Crown Court delivered a stern verdict against Edward Harrison, a 54-year-old former DJ from Ritchie Road, Kinson, Bournemouth, who was found guilty of multiple sexual offenses involving young girls. Harrison, who had previously been known for hosting parties and discos, was convicted of four counts of sexual assault out of a total of eight charges brought against him. The incidents spanned from July 2006 to July 2007, during which Harrison exploited his position and the environment of his gatherings to prey on vulnerable children.

According to court proceedings, Harrison used the guise of hosting social events to carry out his reprehensible acts. The court heard that he would give money to the young victims and instruct them to keep silent about what had transpired, effectively silencing them through financial and emotional manipulation. The victims, whose identities are protected for legal reasons, ranged in age from nine to eleven years old. One young girl, who provided video testimony, recounted her initial confusion and subsequent sadness upon realizing what had happened to her. She expressed relief that her parents now knew the truth, revealing the emotional toll the abuse had taken.

Prosecutor Justin Gau highlighted Harrison’s pattern of behavior, noting that he frequently hosted or attended parties, often organizing discos for attendees. During the trial, it was revealed that Harrison had told one of the victims, “Can you keep a secret? I fancy you,” a statement that underscored the predatory nature of his actions. The court was also informed that Harrison had attempted to deny the allegations, claiming that the girls had fabricated their stories. During cross-examination, he insisted, “The only defence I have got is this court case, I’m afraid. I don’t understand it myself; you can get a child to lie against somebody else.” Harrison also denied giving money to the victims, claiming he “never carry[ed] money” and was “confused,” despite evidence to the contrary.

Judge John Beashel, presiding over the case, condemned Harrison’s breach of trust, emphasizing that his actions had exploited the innocence of his victims. The judge stated, “You were trusted — you have breached that trust,” and described Harrison’s conduct as “cynical,” highlighting the calculated nature of his abuse. As part of his sentence, Harrison was sentenced to 21 months in prison. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for the next ten years and was prohibited from working with children in any capacity moving forward. The case has sent a stark warning about the dangers posed by individuals who abuse positions of trust within community settings, especially in environments where children are present.