ADAM TITHERIDGE PLEADS GUILTY TO RAPE OF TEEN ON SCHOOL GROUNDS IN SITTINGBOURNE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community, 20-year-old Adam Titheridge from Sittingbourne has admitted to the heinous act of raping a 15-year-old girl within the premises of Foyle and Londonderry College. The incident, which took place on July 8 of the previous year, has brought to light serious concerns about safety and misconduct on school grounds.

Initially, Titheridge faced charges of rape and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, denying all allegations during the early stages of the legal proceedings. His address was listed as Broom Road, Sittingbourne, Kent. However, during the course of his trial at Derry Crown Court, a significant development occurred. After just one day of proceedings, Titheridge requested to be re-arraigned, a legal process that involves the defendant's change of plea following amendments to the charges or the indictment.

In a surprising turn, the defendant then entered guilty pleas to both the rape and assault charges. The court proceedings saw the victim’s parents present, visibly distressed, in the courtroom for the re-arraignment. The young girl herself appeared via videolink, providing her testimony remotely, a common practice in sensitive cases involving minors.

Judge Stephen Fowler, presiding over the case, instructed the jury—comprising eight men and four women—to find Titheridge guilty based on his own admission of guilt. The judge acknowledged the gravity of the offense, describing Titheridge’s conduct as a “disgraceful piece of conduct.” Following the guilty plea, the girl’s parents expressed their relief and emotional support by hugging each other.

Sentencing for Titheridge was postponed to allow for the preparation of a probation pre-sentence report and victim impact statements, which are crucial in determining the appropriate punishment and understanding the full extent of the trauma inflicted. The judge ordered Titheridge to be remanded in custody until his next court appearance scheduled for January 18. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender, a measure aimed at monitoring and preventing future offenses.

As the case continues, the community remains concerned about the safety of children on school grounds and the importance of safeguarding measures to prevent such tragic incidents from recurring.