Sex offender jailed for 31 months after breaching child contact ban
Kevin Challen breaks Sexual Harm Prevention Order
A registered sex offender from Worthing has landed behind bars for 31 months after flouting the conditions of his Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). Kevin Challen, 55, was first caught in March 2021 for possessing indecent images of children on his computer. Police investigations led to a suspended 10-month sentence, a 10-year stint on the Sex Offenders Register, and strict SHPO restrictions.
Challen targets child through family friends
Ignoring court orders, Challen cunningly befriended family acquaintances to gain access to a 12-year-old child. He then began messaging the youngster, breaking all the rules. Fortunately, the child told their parents about the illegal contact, leading Sussex Police to swoop and arrest Challen once again.
Guilty plea lands him back in court and jail
Following a detailed probe, Challen faced three counts of breaching his SHPO and failing to comply with Sex Offenders Register rules. He pleaded guilty at Lewes Crown Court on March 15, where he was sentenced to 31 months behind bars. His Sexual Harm Prevention Order was also extended to an indefinite duration.
Investigator hails child’s courage
Dawn Hosken, crime investigator, applauded the bravery of the child in coming forward and thanked witnesses for their support. “Kevin Challen, a convicted sex offender, is now in prison where he belongs,” she said.
