PAUL PRICE FROM BOGNOR REGIS SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON YOUNG GIRL IN PORTSMOUTH

In August 2019, a disturbing case concluded with the conviction of Paul Price, a 63-year-old man from Bognor Regis, West Sussex, who was sentenced to three years in prison for a historic sexual assault involving a young girl. The incident, which took place nearly two decades prior, was brought to light after a lengthy investigation and trial at Portsmouth Crown Court.

According to court proceedings, Price, who is disabled and uses a mobility frame, was found guilty of abusing an 11-year-old girl. The assault occurred when Price was 45 years old, and the crime was committed in the privacy of a house where others were present at the time. The court heard that Price had the young girl on his lap and proceeded to touch her breasts and manipulate her genitalia. The depraved act escalated when Price pressed his erect penis against her, an assault that was only interrupted by the mundane call for dinner, which ended the incident.

Prosecutor Richard Sedgwick detailed the disturbing nature of the assault, stating, “She sat on his lap before Mr. Price took the opportunity to cuddle her and put his hand up her top and rub his hand on her genitalia.” The young girl confided in her mother about the abuse a month later, but her mother initially disbelieved her. It was only years later, after the girl gained the courage to speak out, that she reported the incident to the police and revealed Price’s actions.

Her suffering was compounded by the fact that Price denied any wrongdoing, forcing her to endure a trial to seek justice. Ultimately, a jury found Price guilty of a single count of indecent assault. During sentencing, Judge Timothy Mousley QC addressed Price directly, stating, “You touched the girl’s breasts under her clothing before putting your hand down the side of her knickers and touching her genitalia. You then grinded your penis on her. The woman has suffered extensive psychological problems. When she first told her mum, she was disbelieved and only went to police years later. It must have been a terrible burden.”

As part of his sentence, Price was subjected to a number of restrictions. He was issued an indefinite sexual harm prevention order, which prohibits him from working with children. Additionally, he is required to notify the police of his whereabouts for the next ten years upon leaving prison. Price’s address is listed as Greenwood Close, Bognor Regis, West Sussex, where he resides. The court’s ruling aims to prevent any future harm and ensure public safety, especially for vulnerable children in the community.