PETER THOMPSON FROM THORNABY SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN MIDDLESBROUGH

In a case that has shocked the local community, Peter Thompson, a resident of Thornaby, was sentenced to a decade behind bars after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offenses involving a young boy. The crimes, which took place more than ten years ago, involved Thompson manipulating and abusing a primary school-aged child in Middlesbrough, a city known for its industrial heritage and close-knit neighborhoods.

Thompson, who was a teenager at the time of the offenses, was accused of subjecting the vulnerable boy to a series of escalating sexual abuses. Prosecutor Paul Cleasby detailed how Thompson took the young victim to woodland areas in Middlesbrough to touch him and also took him to a garage or outhouse where he showed him pornography. The court heard that Thompson often disguised these acts as games, which served to manipulate and confuse the young boy, making it easier for him to carry out his abusive acts.

Throughout the trial, it was revealed that Thompson threatened the boy with repercussions if he ever disclosed what was happening. This intimidation was part of a pattern of control that kept the young victim silent for years. The emotional toll of these experiences was evident, as the victim later confided in his family and confronted Thompson via Facebook years after the abuse had ended. In his message, the victim expressed his desire to confront Thompson, writing: “We’re going to have a talk, me and you. For too long this secret’s been in the back of my head. You’d best get in touch.”

Thompson responded dismissively, claiming ignorance about the accusations and asserting that he had turned his life around. He stated, “Don’t start sending me stupid messages. I don’t even live in Boro anymore. I’ve finally put my life back on track… Leave me alone. I’ve met the love of my life. I hate who I was back then. I left that person in Boro. He’s never coming back.”

The victim, unafraid to speak out, called Thompson a “sick coward” and challenged him to admit his wrongdoings face-to-face. Despite Thompson’s denials, the jury found him guilty on seven counts, including five of rape, one of sexual assault, and one of inciting sexual activity, all involving a child under 13. The court also acquitted him of seven other charges, which included two counts of rape, four of indecent assault, and one of indecency with a child.

During the sentencing hearing at Newcastle Crown Court, Judge Amanda Rippon sentenced Thompson to ten years in prison. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender indefinitely. The judge acknowledged the complexity of the case, noting that Thompson was a juvenile at the time of the offenses and that the crimes were committed some time ago. Thompson, who was formerly residing on Maltby Place in Thornaby, broke down in court as the judge discussed the upcoming sentence, emphasizing the need for him to prepare for a custodial term of significant length.

This case has left a lasting impact on the Middlesbrough community, highlighting the importance of vigilance and the need to protect vulnerable children from predators hiding behind seemingly ordinary lives.