Bognor Man Jailed For Child Sex Offences Committed More Than 50 Years Ago

Wednesday, 12 April 2023 07:22

A pensioner has been found guilty of a series of sex offences against a child more than half a century ago.

Terrence Whiffin appeared before Portsmouth Crown Court for trial which commenced on 20 February, charged with 10 offences including rape and indecent assault, dating between 1969 and 1972.

A jury unanimously found him guilty of all 10 charges against him, and on 28 March he was sentenced to 16 years’ imprisonment, to serve a minimum of two-thirds.

The victim, who was known to him, was aged between eight and 11 when the offences were committed at an address in Bognor Regis.

She came forward in 2018 after attending a safeguarding training session, which gave her the encouragement to report her ordeal to police.

Whiffin, now aged 74, of Servite Close, Bognor Regis, strenuously denied the allegations, claiming they were a ‘total fabrication’.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Lee Turner, said:

“Sussex police take offences such as these extremely seriously. It doesn’t matter whether they are happening now, or as in this case, 50 years ago, we will do everything we can to bring offenders to justice.

“Cases such as these are traumatic and often victims are afraid of coming forward for fear of not being believed and will sit and suffer in silence. This result shows that despite the passing of many years, we can still bring a case to court and secure a successful outcome.

“This was a real team effort from our officers – working with the victim and the charging lawyer – to keep the momentum going to achieve such a positive result. It was a complex case which took real determination from everyone involved to reach this conclusion.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to reassure anyone else who has been a victim of crime that you will be heard. While it can be a difficult and lengthy processes, know that we will listen to you, and do everything in our power to support you throughout.”