NEVILLE CROUCH SENTENCED IN PRESTON FOR DECADES-OLD SEXUAL OFFENCES IN WORTHING AND LITTLEHAMPTON
In a significant case that spans several decades and multiple locations, Neville Crouch, a man currently residing in Preston, has been sentenced to a total of 26 years in prison for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against three young girls.The crimes took place in the 1980s and 1990s across West Sussex, including Worthing and Littlehampton, as well as in Hartlepool and Goring in Cleveland.
On Tuesday, March 3, at Hove Crown Court, Crouch, aged 63 and living on Plungington Road in Preston, was formally sentenced after being convicted in a trial held in December 2019.
The court heard that Crouch had assaulted girls under the age of 16 in multiple locations, including Hartlepool, Littlehampton, and Goring, during the late 20th century.
His crimes spanned over a period of years, with some victims suffering in silence for many years before coming forward.
The court's ruling stipulates that Crouch will serve 21 years behind bars, with an additional five years on extended license, ensuring he remains under supervision even after his release.
Furthermore, he will be registered as a sex offender for life, a measure designed to protect the community from any future risk.
The investigation into Crouch’s offenses was initiated by the West Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit, following new information received by police in 2017.
The case was prosecuted by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which authorized the investigation and subsequent legal proceedings.
Detective Constable Andrew Roe, who was involved in the case, explained that Crouch, who worked as a taxi driver in both Hartlepool and Littlehampton during the 1980s and 1990s, exploited his position and familiarity with the victims to commit these crimes.
He added that Crouch’s victims, after enduring years of silence and suffering, showed remarkable bravery by coming forward to police in 2017.
Detective Roe emphasized the importance of perseverance in such cases, stating, “We immediately began enquiries and traced the other two victims.
We ensured that they had access to expert personal support and advice, and all three supported our investigation throughout and resolutely gave evidence at Crouch’s trial, for which they have our admiration.” This case exemplifies the dedication of law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue justice, regardless of how much time has passed since the crimes occurred.
The authorities reaffirm their commitment to investigating and prosecuting sexual offenses, no matter how long ago they took place, to ensure that offenders are held accountable and victims are supported.
