Teen sentenced for fatal stabbing in Hailsham

A 17-year-old boy who fatally stabbed a man in Hailsham can now be named after a judge lifted reporting restrictions following his sentencing for manslaughter.

Rhys Hedges, 17, from Hellingly, was charged with the murder of 20-year-old Billy Ripley, who died after an altercation in August 2024. A jury at Lewes Crown Court found him not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter following a trial which concluded on Friday 28, March.

The court heard that police were called to Vicarage Field in Hailsham at around 6.20pm on Thursday 29, August 2024, following reports of a man being stabbed.

Billy was found lying in an alleyway near The Hailsham Club with a single stab wound to the chest. Despite the best efforts of paramedics and officers, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Witnesses reported seeing the victim sitting on a bench in the town centre when Hedges approached. After a verbal exchange, the pair - who were known to each other – moved into the alleyway where the incident took place.

CCTV footage showed an altercation between the two near the entrance to Hailsham Parish Church. Billy then staggered away, calling out he had been stabbed, before collapsing.

The suspect fled the scene but was quickly identified and arrested at an address in Hailsham later that evening. He was subsequently charged and remanded in custody.

On Friday, 23 May, at Lewes Crown Court, Hedges was sentenced to 8 years in prison minus time served. 

Detective Inspector Amanda Zinyama, of 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.”

Anyone with concerns around knife crime, or those who may be carrying knives in public, is urged to contact police online or via 101. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always dial 999 in an emergency.