LEE TURNER FROM CRAWLEY SENTENCED TO 14 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES

In a case that has shocked the community of Crawley, a former footballer has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term following a series of disturbing sexual assaults on young girls. Lee Turner, who previously played for Crawley Town and also had a stint with Three Bridges FC, was convicted of multiple heinous crimes involving minors.

The court heard that Turner, aged 39 and once a youth player for Chelsea, was found guilty of three counts of rape and nine counts of sexual assault. These offenses were committed against girls under the age of 13, with the incidents occurring over an 18-month period from 2007 to 2009. Despite the conviction on these 12 counts, Turner was acquitted of four additional charges after a three-week trial, and he continues to maintain his innocence regarding the charges on which he was convicted.

The crimes took place in the context of sleepovers, where Turner was entrusted by the victims’ families to care for the young girls. Instead of providing a safe environment, he exploited the trust placed in him, engaging in sexual acts that have now led to his imprisonment. The court proceedings revealed the gravity of his actions and the betrayal of trust involved.

Following the sentencing, Turner’s family issued a statement expressing their unwavering belief in his innocence. They claimed that the case was based on false allegations and fabrications of a malicious nature. The statement read: “We believe this case was based upon fabrication and false allegations of the most wicked and spiteful kind which virtually guaranteed a conviction because of their nature.

In the judge’s summing-up before the jury reached their verdicts, he noted that Turner was of previous good character and maintained his innocence. The family’s statement continued: “Witnesses that could have come forward to corroborate Lee’s defence declined to do so, therefore vital material could not be submitted in Lee’s defence. This is a matter for their own conscience – but we have no doubt their testimonies would have had a major impact to the defence.”

The jury reached a mixed verdict, with three charges resulting in a majority decision and nine others being unanimously agreed upon. Judge Michael Lawson, presiding over the case, addressed Turner directly during sentencing. He stated: “Attending a sleepover is one of the first steps of gaining independence for a child and you abused your position of trust along with the trust of the parents who believed their children would be safe in your care.”

Turner, who resided in Raleigh Walk, Tilgate, until his arrest in November 2009, was handed a 14-year prison sentence for his crimes. The case has left a lasting impact on the local community, raising questions about safeguarding and the importance of vigilance in situations involving vulnerable children.