TERRY STACEY FROM EASTBOURNE SENTENCED FOR SYSTEMATIC SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRLS
In March 2020, a disturbing case emerged from Eastbourne involving Terry Stacey, a 32-year-old man who was convicted of multiple heinous crimes involving the sexual abuse of two young girls.Stacey, who worked as a labourer, was found guilty of rapes and other sexual offenses committed against the girls over a period spanning from 2016 to 2018.
During his retrial at Lewes Crown Court, Stacey admitted to a total of 11 counts related to his criminal conduct.
Subsequently, in February of the same year, he also pleaded guilty to an additional seven charges, bringing the total number of convictions against him to 18.
The court's judgment resulted in a severe sentence of sixteen years in prison, reflecting the gravity of his offenses.
According to Detective Sergeant Andy Lawrence, Stacey's methodical approach to his crimes was particularly disturbing.
He explained, “Stacey got to know these two innocent and vulnerable young girls, building their trust over a period of time.
He gradually gained their confidence and then used that for his own systematic sexual gratification.” Lawrence further detailed how the abuse was uncovered: “Only when a relative of one of the girls noticed some suspicious behaviour by Stacey around one of the girls did the truth come to light.
The bravery of these young victims in supporting the prosecution and giving evidence in court was instrumental in securing the conviction.” Stacey’s guilty plea at his initial trial spared the victims from having to relive the trauma through a lengthy court process.
The detective expressed hope that the conviction and the ongoing safeguarding measures taken by law enforcement and support services would help the victims begin to recover and move forward with their lives.
As a result of his crimes, Terry Stacey, formerly residing in Eastbourne, will be subject to lifelong registration as a sex offender, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community from further harm.
