Former Eastbourne Teacher jailed for sexual abuse

Peter Turner, a former teacher and football referee from Eastbourne, was jailed for 14 years at Hove Crown Court on 29 November 2023 for repeated sexual assaults against his male victim.

The assaults took place over a number of months and were related to Turner’s role as a teacher and football coach.   Turner, who is now 65 years old ingratiated himself with the victim’s family to gain closer access to his victim and to disguise his offending.

His offending came to light in 2016 when his victim reported it to the police. Turner was no longer working as a teacher at that time.

Passing sentence, HHJ Rennie described Turner as a “despicable human being” who had abused his position as a teacher and the trust placed in him by parents who sent their children to school. 

Police Constable Steve Hargrave of Sussex Police added: “I would like to pay testament to the faith and strength shown by the victim to stay committed to this process during the length of this investigation.”

David Hawkins is a specialist in Child and Adult Abuse compensation law with Biscoes Solicitors and has extensive experience in securing redress for victims and survivors of sexual abuse.  If you have been affected by this issue, please contact David for confidential advice as to your legal rights.