Predatory Sex Offender Jailed for Attacking Vulnerable Woman at Tonbridge Pool
Gerard Keane, 61, has been locked up for sexually assaulting a woman with learning difficulties at a public swimming pool in Tonbridge on 1 May 2018. The predator targeted the vulnerable victim in the steam room before following her into the shower area and carrying out the attack.
Witnesses Help Bring Keane to Justice
Another pool visitor witnessed the assault and alerted a support worker who had accompanied the victim. Police were quickly informed, and just two days later Keane was arrested at his home in The Oaks, Swanley.
Despite denying the charges, Keane was convicted by a jury at Maidstone Crown Court and sentenced on 12 August 2021 to two years behind bars. He was also slapped with an indefinite restraining order and added to the sex offenders’ register.
Detective Warns Against Exploiting the Vulnerable
“The victim has multiple learning difficulties affecting communication, making her especially vulnerable. Keane groomed her, even attempting contact via social media before the assault,” said Detective Sergeant Adam Ferguson.
“Keane clearly exploited her vulnerabilities for his own twisted gratification. That the jury took under an hour to convict unanimously shows the strength of the case. We hope this sentence sends a strong message to all would-be offenders—sexual abuse will never be tolerated.”
“No one should suffer in silence. We urge all victims to come forward. Our dedicated teams will investigate every report with the care and sensitivity victims deserve.”
