Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Friday 28th March 2025, at 16:30hrs
A 17-year-old boy from Hellingly has been found guilty of manslaughter in connection with the fatal stabbing of 20-year-old Billy Ripley in Hailsham.
The verdict was reached at Lewes Crown Court on Friday, March 28th, following a trial where the teenager was acquitted of murder.
The tragic incident occurred on Thursday, August 29th, 2024, when emergency services responded to reports of a stabbing at Vicarage Field in Hailsham.
Upon arrival, officers discovered Billy Ripley lying in an alleyway near The Hailsham Club, suffering from a single stab wound to the chest. Despite the efforts of paramedics and police, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses reported seeing an altercation between Ripley and the 17-year-old, who were known to each other, near the war memorial in Hailsham town centre.
CCTV footage confirmed the altercation, showing the two entering an alleyway near Hailsham Parish Church. Ripley was later seen emerging from the alleyway, stating he had been stabbed before collapsing. The suspect was captured on CCTV fleeing the scene.
Following swift investigations, the 17-year-old was identified and arrested at a property in Hailsham.
He was subsequently charged with murder.
After a trial, the jury found him not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to be sentenced on May 23rd.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cullimore, of Sussex and Surrey Police’s Major Crime Team, expressed his condolences to Billy Ripley’s family and commended the public and emergency responders for their efforts.
“Billy lost his life in the most tragic circumstances and our thoughts remain, as they have throughout this investigation, with his family and loved ones,” he said.
Detective Chief Inspector Jim Loader, Sussex Police’s lead for knife crime and serious violence, emphasized the devastating consequences of knife crime.
“This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of knife crime,” he said.
“Sussex Police, along with our partners, are committed to combating knife crime every day. We engage with young people to educate them about the dangers early on, work with those already in contact with authorities to guide them away from crime and take enforcement action against offenders.”
He further added, “Sussex remains a safe place, with knife crime rates well below the national average. However, even one knife on the streets is too many. Please, do not carry a weapon. It endangers you and others. It’s simply not worth the risk.”
Sussex Police urge anyone with concerns about knife crime to contact them online or via 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
In emergencies, dial 999.
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