PHILIP PRICE CAUGHT IN RADFORD: COMMUNITY ALERT OVER SEX OFFENDER IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

In August 2006, a disturbing incident brought to light the ongoing challenge of monitoring convicted sex offenders within local communities. The case involved Philip Price, a man with a troubling past, who was recently caught in Radford after a vigilant member of the public observed him inappropriately watching children at a local playground.

According to police reports, Price, aged 37, had previously been convicted of indecent assault on minors and was subject to a lifetime sex offenders order imposed in 2002 at the request of law enforcement authorities. Despite this, he was found in Radford’s Woodlands flats complex on July 23, engaging in suspicious activity with two children. The concerned passer-by immediately alerted the police, who responded swiftly to the scene.

Officers located Price at his residence on Pine View in Radford, where he was found with the children and their mother. The incident prompted his arrest, and he was subsequently sentenced to 120 days in jail for breaching the terms of his sex offender order. This order had explicitly prohibited him from having any contact with individuals under the age of 16 and from visiting children’s play areas, restrictions he violated by being present with the children at the playground.

Police and victim support organizations emphasize the importance of community vigilance and public cooperation in safeguarding children. Detective Inspector Ian Winton of the Sexual Exploitation Investigation Unit explained that while offenders are regularly assessed, constant surveillance is impossible. “There is no standard way of policing a sex offender order,” he stated. “The police are not legally obligated to inform parents or guardians if a child unknowingly develops a relationship with a registered sex offender.”

Ian Firth, manager of Victim Support in Nottingham, highlighted the critical role that community members play in assisting law enforcement efforts. He stressed that public awareness and reporting are vital components in the fight against sexual exploitation of minors.

Historical records reveal that Price’s criminal history dates back to 1994, when he was convicted of indecent assault on a boy and a girl under 14. After serving two years in prison, authorities continued to monitor his activities, and reports indicated ongoing contact with children. This led to the imposition of the sex offenders order, which he subsequently violated.

During his recent court appearance at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court, Price pleaded guilty to breaching the conditions of his sex offender order. His girlfriend, who was unaware of his past, ended their relationship immediately following his arrest. Defense counsel Jill Hawkins explained that Price had suggested going to the park on a nice day but was overwhelmed by panic and chose to stay near the gate, fearing the repercussions of revealing his history.

Police confirmed that there was no legal obligation to disclose Price’s criminal background to his partner, underscoring ongoing debates about transparency and community safety. Internationally, advocates like Laura Ahearn, executive director of Parents for Megan’s Law in the United States, argue that law enforcement should have the authority to inform the public about registered sex offenders to enable communities to protect themselves. Newark MP Patrick Mercer echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Britain should consider adopting a similar law to Megan’s Law to enhance public safety and awareness.