Adrian Jason Cribb

Adrian Jason Cribb, a 35-year-old resident of Green Crescent in Gosport, Hampshire, was sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment following his conviction for a series of serious child sex offences. The case, investigated by Hampshire Constabulary, came to light after reports emerged that Cribb had initiated a sexual relationship with a child under the age of 16.

The offences took place between April 2021 and May 2022. Cribb was charged with five specific counts: engaging in digital penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15; engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15; engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15 on at least five other occasions; and two counts of rape of a woman aged 16 or over. Hampshire police described the investigation as extensive, highlighting their commitment to pursuing such cases.

Cribb was found guilty unanimously by a jury at Portsmouth Crown Court on Friday, 5 September 2024. Sentencing occurred on Thursday, 20 November 2024, at the same court, where he received a 15-year custodial sentence with an additional five-year extended licence period. In addition to the prison term, Cribb was made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order with lifelong conditions, an indefinite restraining order against the victim, and required to sign on to the Sex Offenders Register for life.

Detective Constable Nick Sandford-Smith of Operation Amberstone East commented on the case, stating, “I hope this result sends a clear message about the seriousness with which we treat these offences. We encourage other victims to come forward and speak to us. We take allegations of this nature extremely seriously and work hard to bring offenders to justice.” The judge at the trial commended the bravery of the complainant and the professionalism of the registered intermediary who supported her during the proceedings.

The case underscores the ongoing efforts by Hampshire Constabulary to protect vulnerable children and ensure that perpetrators of sexual offences face severe consequences. Cribb's conviction and sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the legal repercussions for such crimes in the United Kingdom.