NICHOLAS ESTEVE'S SHOCKING CRIME IN EASTBOURNE: TEACHER'S SEXUAL ASSAULT ON 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL LEADS TO JAIL AND COURT APPEAL

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the Eastbourne community, Nicholas Esteve, a teacher employed at Hailsham Community College, was convicted of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl in Eastbourne. The incident, which took place in April of the previous year, resulted in Esteve being sentenced to 18 months in prison after a court found him guilty of the charges.

Esteve, aged 36 and residing on Rotunda Road in Eastbourne, was not only accused of assaulting the young girl but also of inciting her to engage in sexual activity. The case came to light after the victim’s mother expressed her concerns about Esteve’s inappropriate behaviour, prompting her to contact the police. Following her report, law enforcement officials initiated an investigation, during which Esteve was questioned by specialist child protection officers.

Subsequently, Esteve was formally charged with sexual assault and incitement to sexual activity. His court appearance took place at Lewes Crown Court, where he was convicted on both counts. The court’s decision also mandated that Esteve register as a sex offender for a period of ten years upon his release from prison. Additionally, he was served with an indefinite Sex Offender Prevention Order (SOPO), which imposes strict restrictions on his interactions with minors.

One of the key restrictions includes a ban on Esteve contacting the victim or any other individual under the age of 16 unless explicit consent is obtained from a parent, guardian, or other responsible adult who has been informed of his offending history. The order also prohibits him from seeking employment or volunteering with any organization that involves contact with children under 16.

In response to the incident, a spokesperson for East Sussex County Council stated that Esteve was suspended from his duties at Hailsham Community College immediately after the allegations surfaced. Following a thorough investigation, he was subsequently dismissed from his position. The council emphasized that the charges against Esteve were not related to his professional conduct or any pupils at the school, clarifying that the offences occurred outside of his employment environment.

Detective Constable Amy Green highlighted the importance of community vigilance and encouraged parents and children to report any concerns about inappropriate behaviour. She praised the mother for her courage in coming forward and supporting her daughter through the legal process.

Meanwhile, a court appeal in November 2012 resulted in a modification of the original court order. The appeal, which was heard in London’s Criminal Appeal Court, led to the lifting of the ban on Esteve having contact with children under 16, except for young girls. The judges accepted that there was no evidence to suggest Esteve was attracted to boys, and therefore, the restriction was narrowed to prevent contact solely with female minors. This change was met with mixed reactions, as it raised questions about the ongoing safety measures for potential victims in Eastbourne and beyond.