HOVE PAEDOPHILE PETER CLEAVER BANNED FROM CARE HOME AFTER SEXUAL ABUSE CONVICTION

In a case that has shocked the community of Hove, 91-year-old Peter Cleaver has been officially barred from returning to his care home following his conviction for serious sexual offenses involving a young girl. The incident, which took place in the 1990s, was brought to light during a court hearing held in July, revealing disturbing details of abuse committed by Cleaver against a girl under the age of 14.

According to court records, Cleaver was responsible for multiple acts of sexual misconduct, including one act of gross indecency and two indecent assaults, all committed between April 1992 and April 1997. The victim, who was known to him, was subjected to these heinous acts in various locations, including a Tesco car park in Boundary Road, Portslade, as well as at an address in Hangleton and within the premises of a care home in New Church Road, Hove.

During the proceedings, it was established that Cleaver’s health had deteriorated significantly, rendering him unfit to stand trial. Despite this, the jury found sufficient evidence to conclude that he was responsible for the offenses. The court, presided over by Recorder William Featherby, heard that Cleaver was suffering from dementia, which affected his understanding of the proceedings and his ability to participate actively. The judge noted that there had been prior concerns about the care home's ability to manage Cleaver’s behavior, which had contributed to his placement issues.

Kevin Light, representing Cleaver, informed the court that the elderly man was currently hospitalized at the Royal Sussex County Hospital due to a medical condition. He emphasized that Cleaver could not return to the care home and that arrangements were being made to find a suitable long-term placement for him. The Brighton and Hove City Council’s social services department has been designated as the supervising authority overseeing his case.

Judge Featherby stated, “He suffers from dementia and was produced in court, but I am satisfied beyond recognizing his name he understands little.” The judge also highlighted that since Cleaver’s admission to the hospital, efforts are underway to secure a more appropriate and sustainable living arrangement for him, given the difficulties the care home previously faced in managing his needs.

It was also confirmed that Cleaver was declared unfit to plead due to his health, but the court’s trial of facts in July established his guilt in the sexual offenses. The court’s decision means that Cleaver will be subject to a supervision order, which will be imposed at a future hearing scheduled for September 15. This order aims to monitor his behavior and ensure public safety, given the severity of his crimes and his current health status.

Overall, this case underscores the ongoing concerns about safeguarding vulnerable individuals and the importance of appropriate care and supervision for elderly offenders, especially those suffering from cognitive impairments. The community of Hove remains vigilant as authorities continue to manage the aftermath of this disturbing case, ensuring that justice is served and that measures are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.