PETER GREGORY FROM DOVER SENTENCED TO 16 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILD

In a case that has shocked the community of Dover, Peter Gregory, a 60-year-old resident of Clarendon Street, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against a young girl many years ago.

Gregory’s crimes involved a sustained campaign of sexual abuse and assault against the victim, which took place decades prior to his arrest. The court heard that Gregory had isolated his young victim and subjected her to repeated acts of sexual violence, causing long-lasting trauma.

The sentencing took place at Canterbury Crown Court, where Gregory pleaded guilty to four counts of indecent assault and attempted rape. Initially, Gregory had denied all charges, including the allegation of rape, but on the day of his trial earlier this year, he changed his plea and admitted to the attempted rape.

During the proceedings, Judge Mark Weekes commended the bravery of the young girl who testified against Gregory. The judge emphasized that Gregory’s actions had attempted to break her dignity but praised her resilience in facing her ordeal.

The court was informed that Gregory, who was arrested in March 2019, had previously denied all allegations. However, during the investigation, he wrote a letter to his victim, pleading for forgiveness, a gesture that the court noted as part of his attempt to seek remorse.

The victim, who provided a statement to the court, described her life as being profoundly affected by Gregory’s abuse. She revealed that she now struggles with mental health issues, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. She described herself as feeling like a prisoner after what Gregory did to her, highlighting the deep and lasting impact of his actions.

In addition to the prison sentence, Gregory was subjected to an extended period of supervision, including a one-year license condition, and was ordered to comply with lifetime notification requirements, reflecting the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community of Dover.