GARY PRICE FROM MARGATE AND THANET SENTENCED FOR RAPE OF 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Gary Price, aged 28, formerly residing on Connaught Road in Margate and now living in Thanet, has been convicted of heinous sexual offenses involving a minor. The case was heard at Canterbury Crown Court, where Price was found guilty of multiple counts of rape and sexual activity with a child, leading to a significant prison sentence.

The allegations against Price emerged on July 4, 2012, when police received crucial information indicating that a 14-year-old girl had disclosed she had been subjected to repeated sexual assaults over a period of time. The victim, who was only 13 when she first met Price, explained that their initial contact was facilitated through a mutual friend. Over time, Price maintained communication with her via text messages and social media platforms, attempting to establish a relationship that would eventually turn abusive.

According to the victim, Price had repeatedly asked her to engage in sexual intercourse. She consistently declined these advances. However, between May 19 and 20, 2012, Price committed multiple acts of rape at his residence, which was identified as his home address. The girl’s account detailed a series of distressing encounters that left her traumatized and frightened.

During police interviews, Price claimed that the sexual acts were consensual and insisted that the girl had told him she was over 16 years old. These assertions were challenged by the evidence presented during the trial. The prosecution argued that Price had deliberately misled the victim and exploited her age and vulnerability.

Following a thorough trial, the jury at Canterbury Crown Court returned a guilty verdict on November 13, 2013. Price was convicted on three counts of rape and four counts of sexual activity with a child. The court’s decision was based on the compelling evidence and testimonies provided during the proceedings.

On Thursday, February 13, 2014, Price appeared before the same court for sentencing. The judge sentenced him to 12 years in prison, reflecting the severity of his crimes. Additionally, Price was ordered to serve an extended license period of three years upon release. He will also be subject to a sex offender prevention order, which imposes restrictions aimed at preventing further offenses. His name will be entered onto the sex offenders’ register, ensuring ongoing monitoring and public awareness.

Detective Constable Jo-anne Gordon, from the child exploitation investigation team at Kent Police, emphasized the importance of the victim’s bravery in coming forward. She stated, “The success of this case is a testament to the bravery of the victim who came forward and provided the court with all that they needed to find Price guilty. I’d also like to pay tribute to the victim’s family who provided tremendous support during the case. I would encourage anyone who has been a victim of such a crime to come forward and talk; the police will listen and we will investigate. You should not suffer in silence.”