PETER FREELEY SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN FIFE
In a case that has shocked the community of Fife, Peter Freeley, a 45-year-old man from the region, has been sentenced to 30 months in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing two young girls.The incidents occurred during sleepovers at his residence on Methil Brae in the town of Methil, where he exploited the trust placed in him by the victims and their families.
Freeley's crimes came to light following a trial at Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court, where the court heard detailed accounts of his misconduct.
The first victim, a girl aged 12 at the time, was targeted between January and April 2016.
During this period, she was at Freeley's house, where he repeatedly attempted to kiss her and engaged in inappropriate touching of her private parts while she was lying on the couch in his living room.
The girl was dressed in smiley face pyjamas at the time of the assault, which added a disturbing element to the case.
The second victim was a girl with cognitive disabilities who had previously been subjected to sexual abuse.
Freeley's abuse of this girl was particularly egregious, involving groping and forcing his tongue into her mouth.
These assaults took place at the same address on Methil Brae between February 2016 and September 2017, spanning over a year and a half.
The court heard that Freeley exploited his position as a trusted adult, a friend, and a neighbor to carry out these heinous acts.
During sentencing, Sheriff Jamie Gilchrist QC emphasized the severity of Freeley's crimes.
He stated that the nature of the offenses was so grave that only a custodial sentence could serve justice.
The sheriff condemned Freeley's betrayal of trust and his exploitation of vulnerable victims, describing his actions as a gross violation of their innocence and safety.
Following the verdict, Freeley was taken into custody.
As he was led from the court, he swayed in the dock, visibly affected by the proceedings.
He was subsequently added to the sex offenders register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.
The case has left the local community in shock, highlighting the importance of vigilance and safeguarding vulnerable individuals from predatory behavior.
