TOM PRICE FROM CANVEY ISLAND AND HAVERING JAILED FOR HORRIFIC RAPE OF 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Canvey Island and Havering, Tom Price, a 22-year-old man, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for the heinous crime of raping a 14-year-old girl in her own home. The incident, which took place in early 2013, was brought to light during a court hearing at Snaresbrook Crown Court, where the details of the assault were thoroughly examined.

According to court records, the young victim, who was a virgin at the time, made efforts to resist the attack. Despite her attempts to fight off the assault, Price, who was 19 years old at the time, was described as being “far too strong for her.” The court heard that Price did not use a condom during the assault and ejaculated inside her, a factor that contributed to the severity of his sentencing. The location of the attack, within the girl’s own home, further underscored the vulnerability of the victim and the gravity of the crime.

Following the incident, Price was arrested while residing on a caravan site in Thorney Bay Road, Canvey Island, where he was living with his partner. He reportedly hoped that the repercussions of his actions would not catch up with him, but justice was ultimately served.

During the sentencing, Judge John Lafferty emphasized the seriousness of the offence. He stated, “The victim was particularly vulnerable because of her age and because she was in her own home. She had no previous sexual experience and attempted to fight you off, but you were far too strong.” The judge also noted that Price did not plead guilty, which meant he did not receive any credit for remorse. Had he been an adult at the time of the offence, the sentence could have been as long as nine years.

In addition to his prison term, Price was subject to a sexual offence prevention order. This order prohibits him from contacting the victim and from visiting or inviting any child under 16 into his home unless they are family members or the responsible adult is aware of his conviction. The court’s decision reflects the concern for public safety and the protection of minors.

Price’s family members, including his partner, were present in court. His partner submitted a letter to the judge claiming that he had become a “changed man” since becoming a father. The defense lawyer, Matthew Pardoe, argued that Price had shown signs of improvement, stating, “He was 19 when it happened, he’s now 22. There has been improvement in his behaviour – he moved away and lived a normal life with his partner. He was hoping this event would never come back to haunt him. His letter demonstrates maturation, he’s not as reckless as he was in 2013.”

It was also revealed that Price has a criminal record that includes theft and handling stolen goods, indicating a pattern of poor decision-making. During his time in remand, which lasted nine months, Price expressed remorse for his actions, writing a letter to the court in which he stated that he had used the time to reflect and was “extremely remorseful.”

Overall, the case highlights the serious consequences of such a grave offence and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals within the community of Havering and Canvey Island.