TERENCE PRICE FROM WINCHESTER SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN SOUTHAMPTON

A man aged 66 from Winchester has been handed a significant prison sentence after being found guilty of multiple child sex offences. The conviction followed a detailed ten-day trial held at Southampton Crown Court, where Terence Peter Price, residing on Romsey Road, was convicted of 13 separate counts related to his criminal conduct. The court proceedings culminated on Friday, 26 January, with the jury delivering their verdict after carefully considering the evidence presented.

Price was subsequently sentenced on Thursday, 15 February, to serve a minimum of ten years behind bars. In addition to his prison term, he will be subject to a restraining order designed to prevent any contact with the victim or other potential victims. Upon his eventual release, he will also be required to serve an extended year on licence, ensuring continued supervision and monitoring of his activities.

The offences for which Price has been convicted took place over a span of five years, from April 2016 to April 2021, in the area of Hedge End. The initial incident involved a young girl who was only ten years old at the time. The crimes only came to light when they were reported to police in June 2021, prompting a thorough investigation by law enforcement authorities.

Detective Constable Mark Gallagher, a member of the Criminal Investigation Department involved in the case, expressed his admiration for the victim’s bravery. He stated, “It took a lot of courage and bravery for the victim to come forward and make these disclosures to us. I have nothing but the greatest admiration for her. She fully supported our investigation, and with the strength of the evidence against him, Price’s account was rejected by the jury.”

He further emphasized the gravity of Price’s actions, saying, “Price abused her for his own sexual gratification, without a moment’s thought for the child and the long-lasting effects his crimes would have on her. While I know this result won’t erase her memories of what happened, I truly hope it allows her to move forward with her life, knowing that because she came forward, he can no longer harm any other children.”

Detective Gallagher also highlighted the importance of victims speaking out, stating, “I also hope this sentence reassures other victims that they will be listened to when reporting similar incidents. We encourage others to come forward and speak to us. We take allegations of this nature extremely seriously and work tirelessly to bring offenders to justice. This should also serve as a clear message to other offenders that we will always pursue justice for victims.”

He concluded by thanking everyone involved in securing the conviction, including the jury, who played a crucial role in ensuring that a dangerous individual is no longer free to pose a threat to others.