Teen sentenced for fatal stabbing in Hailsham
A 17-year-old boy has been named after being sentenced for the manslaughter of a man who died following a stabbing in Hailsham in August 2024
A teenager who fatally stabbed a man in Hailsham can now be named after a judge lifted reporting restrictions at his sentencing today (Friday 23 May).
Rhys Hedges, 17, from Hellingly, was sentenced to eight years in prison, minus time already served, after being found guilty of manslaughter at Lewes Crown Court. He was cleared of murder.
The court heard that police were called to Vicarage Field, Hailsham, at around 6.20pm on Thursday 29 August 2024, following reports of a stabbing.
Officers found 20-year-old Billy Ripley lying in an alleyway near The Hailsham Club with a single stab wound to the chest. He was pronounced dead at the scene despite the efforts of emergency services.
Witnesses said Billy had been sitting on a bench in the town centre when Hedges approached him. After a brief verbal exchange, the pair—who were known to each other—moved into an alleyway where the stabbing occurred.
CCTV footage showed the two having an altercation near the entrance to Hailsham Parish Church. Billy was then seen staggering away and calling out that he had been stabbed before collapsing.
Hedges fled the scene but was identified and arrested at an address in Hailsham later that evening. He was charged with murder and remanded in custody.
Detective Inspector Amanda Zinyama, from Sussex and Surrey Police’s Major Crime Team, said: “Billy lost his life in the most tragic circumstances, and our thoughts remain with his family, who have shown immense strength through this incredibly difficult time.
“We are grateful to the witnesses who came forward, and to everyone who supported the investigation.
“While nothing can bring Billy back, I hope today’s sentencing brings some measure of closure to his loved ones.”
Detective Chief Inspector Jim Loader, Sussex Police’s lead for knife crime and serious violence, said: “Knife crime has devastating consequences. One life lost is too many.
“Sussex remains a safe place, with knife crime rates well below the national average. But even one knife on the streets is too many. Please don’t carry a weapon – it endangers you and others. It's simply not worth the risk.”
Police continue to urge anyone with concerns about knife crime to contact them online or by calling 101. Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always dial 999 in an emergency.