RICHARD PERRETT FROM BISHOPS GREEN AND BASINGSTOKE JAILED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES

In October 2015, Richard Perrett, a resident of Basingstoke, was released from prison on the 23rd of that month. Since his release, he has been living in Basingstoke, following a conviction for serious sexual offences involving a minor. His criminal history and recent incarceration have brought significant attention to his case, highlighting the ongoing concerns about child protection in the region.

Back in February 2014, Perrett, then aged 38 and residing at Kestrel Place in Bishops Green, was sentenced to a substantial prison term after being found guilty of multiple sexual offences against a young girl. The charges stemmed from a disturbing incident that took place on September 2, 2012, when Perrett offered a ride to a 14-year-old girl in a rural area, specifically a country lane passing point. Instead of providing her with a safe journey, he subjected her to sexual abuse during the car ride. The case was brought to light after the girl confided in a friend, whose boyfriend subsequently reported the matter to the authorities.

Perrett’s criminal record includes a history of inappropriate conduct, notably having previously kissed the girl on the mouth and encouraging her to send him explicit text messages. These messages played a crucial role in the case, as they served as evidence during the trial. The girl, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, demonstrated remarkable bravery by giving evidence against Perrett in court. Her testimony was pivotal in establishing his guilt.

Perrett appeared before Winchester Crown Court to face sentencing after a jury, which reached a majority verdict, convicted him of three counts: sexual activity with a child under 16, sexual assault on a female, and inciting a female under 16 to engage in sexual activity. During the proceedings, Perrett maintained his innocence, claiming that the explicit messages were intended for his partner and denying any wrongdoing. However, Judge Jane Miller dismissed his claims, emphasizing that the jury did not believe his version of events. The judge praised the victim’s courage, stating, “She gave evidence very bravely, and she was called a liar. Those texts in my view showed very clearly that she was not lying. You tried to explain away the texts saying they were for your partner, but that was not true.”

Judge Miller also highlighted the emotional impact on the victim, noting that she felt scared and was hurt by accusations suggesting she was seeking attention or trying to cause trouble at home. The court acknowledged the severity of the offences and the need for appropriate punishment. As part of his sentence, Perrett was sentenced to three and a half years in prison. The judge also ordered that he remain on the sex offenders register for a period of ten years, reflecting the serious nature of his crimes and the potential risk he poses to the community.

Perrett’s case underscores the importance of vigilance and the protection of vulnerable minors in the Basingstoke and Bishops Green areas. His criminal activities and subsequent imprisonment serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts required to combat child exploitation and ensure justice for victims.