Kent’s specialist detectives are taking no prisoners when it comes to protecting vulnerable people. In February alone, the Public Protection Command secured tough jail terms, guilty verdicts, and fresh charges against some of the region’s worst offenders.
Harsh Sentences for Child Abusers and Predators
- Sam Levett, 34, Gravesend: Slapped with a 15-year sentence after multiple rapes and sexual assaults on a child between 2019-2020. Must serve at least 10 years and is under a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. Detective Sgt Matthew Childs and DC Chris Taylor earned praise for their painstaking investigation at the Old Bailey.
- Alan Davies, 45, ex-Gravesend: Pleaded guilty to 73 sexual offences against 39 victims over two decades. He installed hidden cameras to film women and kids undressing, sharing some images online. Admitted assaults including child rape. Sentencing set for July 17 at Maidstone Crown Court.
- Gordon Jackson, 69, Deal: Jailed for three years after pleading guilty to sexually touching a child during private maths lessons. Also slapped with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order at Canterbury Crown Court.
- Lewis Stevens, 33, no fixed address: Found guilty of rapes and assaults in Maidstone area involving children and others. Sentencing due April 20.
More Arrests Targeting Child Exploitation and Fraud
- Hayleigh Cross, 42, New Romney: Charged with defrauding an elderly victim of £37,000 using their bank card. Court date April 16.
- Rowan Shenton, 32, Herne Bay: Convicted of online child sex offences and possession of child abuse images. Sentencing April 30.
- Andrew Sharp, 69, no fixed address: Pleaded guilty to multiple child sex offences including rape since 2019 in Romney Marsh. Sentencing on April 24, 2026.
Force Leader Praises Victims and Police Teams
“Crimes against children, the elderly, and vulnerable people are often the most complex to investigate,” said Detective Chief Superintendent Ed Ruffle, Head of Public Protection Command. “Offenders target those they believe won’t report them, but many victims have shown immense bravery helping us secure justice.”
“Our officers work tirelessly to lock up these predators, protecting victims and the wider community from further harm. We hope these results encourage others to come forward, confident they will be believed. Support is available whenever they’re ready.”
Know Your Rights with Sarah’s Law and Clare’s Law
Kent Police run the Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme (Sarah’s Law), allowing people to check if someone poses a risk to their child via criminal record disclosure. They also offer the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (Clare’s Law), to inform people about abusive current or ex-partners. Details are available on the Kent Police website.
