GRAEME HAGGER SENTENCED IN GOSPORT FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF TEENAGER IN FAREHAM AND BEYOND

In a case that has deeply affected a young girl and her family, Graeme Hagger, aged 42, was sentenced to three years and eight months in prison at Portsmouth Crown Court for engaging in a prolonged sexual relationship with a teenage girl. The court heard that Hagger, a resident of Weevil Lane in Gosport, had been involved with the girl for over a year, beginning when she was just 14 years old. His actions have left lasting scars on the victim and her family, who have expressed their pain and desire to rebuild their lives after the ordeal.

The girl’s family, who have chosen to remain anonymous for legal reasons, described the profound impact of Hagger’s abuse. The girl’s father stated, “Our daughter has lost two years of her childhood and you can never get that back. He has absolutely ruined our lives.” The family’s anguish underscores the devastating effects of such abuse, which has robbed the girl of her innocence and childhood.

Hagger’s initial contact with the girl occurred in Fareham in April 2006. Over the following fifteen months, their relationship developed into a disturbing pattern of sexual activity. During this period, Hagger took the girl to various locations, including his boat moored on Fareham Creek, his father’s residence in Wallington, and several hotels in the New Forest and Bournemouth. Evidence presented in court revealed that Hagger, who is a company director, even purchased a diamond engagement ring for the girl during Christmas of 2006, further complicating the emotional trauma involved.

Despite the girl’s attempts to end the relationship at one point, Hagger managed to rekindle their connection, continuing his abusive behavior. His arrest came in August 2007, but he initially denied any relationship with the girl. It was only after further police interviews in June 2008 that he was formally charged with the offenses.

The girl’s father reflected on the emotional toll of the case, saying, “It’s been two years of focusing on one thing and having no other life, which was seeing him convicted. There’s been a lot of tears and a lot of hugs. It’s been hell. This is the closure we have been waiting for so that we can re-build our lives and move on.” He also expressed hope that, with time and support, his daughter would learn to trust again, emphasizing the importance of love and care from her family.

Hagger pleaded guilty to four charges of sexual activity with a child between April 2006 and July 2007, fully aware that the girl was under 16. As a result, he has been placed on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct. The case highlights the tragic consequences of grooming and abuse, and the court’s decision aims to serve justice for the young victim and her family.