TERRANCE WHITTINGHAM SENTENCED IN NEWCASTLE FOR HISTORIC SEX OFFENCES AGAINST THREE SCHOOLGIRLS
An 83-year-old man named Terrance Whittingham faces a potential life sentence behind bars after being convicted of historic sexual offences committed against three young schoolgirls in Newcastle.Despite his denial of any wrongdoing or targeting of the victims, a jury found him guilty following a detailed trial process.
During the proceedings at Newcastle Crown Court, the three women who were victimized delivered powerful impact statements.
They described the lasting trauma inflicted upon them by Whittingham’s actions.
One of the women expressed a sense of relief and closure, stating, "I know he can never again do anything like this to anyone, which means I get peace." Their testimonies underscored the profound and enduring effects of the abuse they endured as children.
In sentencing, Judge Gavin Doig sentenced Whittingham to 13 years in prison, with an additional one-year extended licence period.
The court also ordered him to comply with a sexual harm prevention order and to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life.
These measures are designed to monitor and restrict his activities to prevent any future harm.
Addressing Whittingham directly, Judge Doig remarked, "There is no doubt your offending has caused significant and lasting trauma to these women, who were and are telling the truth about you and have been throughout.
I would like to pay tribute to all of them for having the courage to come forward in the first place and perhaps having greater courage to see the case through." Whittingham, who resides on Colliery Close in Hebburn, was convicted of 16 separate offences, including indecent assault, indecency with a child, and attempted indecency.
Throughout the trial, he maintained his innocence, denying all charges.
His legal representative, David Callan, highlighted Whittingham’s background, noting his poor mobility, service in the army, and receipt of a war pension.
Callan expressed concern that the sentence might result in Whittingham dying while incarcerated, stating, "It's probable, with any sentence that gets passed, it may mean the defendant is going to die while in prison.
This is not a defendant who views the future as a friend." Overall, the case has left a lasting impact on the victims and the community in Newcastle, highlighting the importance of justice and the protection of vulnerable individuals from predatory offenders.
