PETER STEVEN FROM CRADLEY AND SELSEY SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN SOUTHAMPTON

In a significant case heard at Southampton Crown Court, Peter Steven, a 52-year-old former publican with ties to Cradley and Selsey, was sentenced to three years in prison for serious sexual offences committed against under-age girls. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about Steven's actions, which led to his conviction on charges of sexual activity with a minor and indecent assault.

Steven, who previously operated establishments including The Wheel in Pennington and The Hobler in Lymington, was found guilty at an earlier hearing. His crimes have cast a long shadow over his reputation, and the court took the step of forfeiting his license, effectively stripping him of his ability to continue working in the pub trade. The judge, Jeremy Burford QC, emphasized the gravity of the offences and ordered Steven to surrender his remaining seven years of licensing rights.

During the sentencing, a probation officer provided insight into the impact of Steven’s actions, stating that the victim was likely to have endured significant emotional and psychological trauma as a result of the abuse. The court also imposed a sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits Steven from making any contact with the victim for a period of ten years, aiming to prevent further harm.

At the time of sentencing, Steven, who now resides in Selsey, Sussex, expressed a desire to leave the pub industry behind, indicating a wish to move on from his previous career. However, the court made it clear that his criminal record would follow him, and he was also placed on the sex offenders’ register, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. This case highlights the serious consequences of child sex offences and the ongoing efforts of the justice system to protect vulnerable individuals from predatory behavior.