WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County District Attorney’s Office announced that 63-year-old Terrance Fordham of Coatesville was found guilty by a jury this week of unlawful contact with a minor, indecent assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and corruption of minors for sexually abusing a child in 2020. He will be sentenced at a later date.
“This was an emotional case for everyone involved because of the devastation the victim endured at the hands of Terrance Fordham,” said Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan. “Some of the jurors were brought to tears. I applaud the victim’s courage, bravery, and fortitude. Justice was served for this child.”
According to information presented to the court, on July 2, 2020, Coatesville Police became aware of a 7-year-old child being sexually abused at a relative’s house in Coatesville. Investigators learned that the defendant would touch the victim inappropriately and kiss him. The abuse happened multiple times over several months.
Coatesville Police and Chester County Detectives conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution in this case. Assistant District Attorneys Zachary Yurick and Santina Pescatore were the prosecutors.
Call Childline at 1-800-932-0313 if you suspect a child is being abused.
Learn to recognize, react, and report child sexual abuse by taking a free virtual Stewards of Children workshop. Contact County Coordinator Katie Walters at kwalters@chesco.org or 610-344-6115 for more information.
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