PORTSLADE MAN GEORGE ROY BALCOMBE JESTICO SENTENCED TO SEVEN YEARS FOR CHILD ABUSE AND INDECENT IMAGES

In a significant case that has drawn considerable attention, a resident of Portslade, George Roy Balcombe Jestico, has been handed down a seven-year prison sentence by Lewes Crown Court for a series of serious offenses related to child abuse and the possession and distribution of indecent images of children. The court's decision underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat child exploitation and bring offenders to justice.

Jestico, aged 64 and residing on Vale Road in Portslade, was brought before the court on Friday, August 13th, following a detailed investigation by Sussex Police’s Paedophile On-Line Investigation Team (POLIT). The investigation was initiated after authorities received intelligence indicating that Jestico had been involved in the distribution of indecent images of children over a prolonged period. Acting on this information, police executed a warrant at his residence in October 2008, leading to the discovery of numerous illicit materials.

During the proceedings, Jestico faced multiple charges. He admitted to four counts of distributing indecent images, five counts of making such images, and five counts of possession. These charges relate to material that he was found to have created, stored, and shared over the years. In addition to these charges, Jestico was also accused of 14 counts of sexual assault concerning a female victim he had abused over three decades ago. Although he denied these allegations, the jury found him guilty of all 14 counts after a thorough trial.

The case drew comments from law enforcement officials involved in the investigation. Detective Constable Helen Curtis from POLIT emphasized the importance of the court’s ruling, stating, “As well as being sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment, Jestico was given a Sexual Offences Prevention Order and will be on the Sex Offenders Register for life. The POLIT will continue to trace offenders who distribute vile images of child abuse and ensure that justice is done.”

Furthermore, Detective Constable Dave Hunt from Brighton & Hove’s Child Protection Team (CPT) highlighted the significance of pursuing justice regardless of the time elapsed since the offenses. He remarked, “Despite the historic nature of the offences, the jury listened to the evidence against Jestico and convicted him on all counts. We will always fully investigate allegations of child abuse, no matter how long ago the offences took place.”

Jestico’s case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent efforts by law enforcement to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable victims from ongoing harm. His sentencing marks a decisive step in holding offenders accountable and reinforcing the message that such crimes will not be tolerated in society.