Sex Offender Caught with Secret Devices After Police Visit
Richard Howes, convicted for making indecent images of children, has landed back behind bars for breaking his sexual harm prevention order.
Police Suspicious of New Phone Lead to Arrest
Howes, 59, from Prospect Row, Chatham, was slapped with the order at Maidstone Crown Court in August 2021. It forced him to make any internet-enabled devices available for police checks and to report new gadgets within three days.
On 28 January 2024, officers showed up suspecting he had a new phone. Howes handed over a phone and a tablet, denying any others. But a search revealed two more tablets and another undeclared phone hidden at his home.
Jailed for 18 Months Over Multiple Breaches
He pleaded guilty to three breaches of the sexual harm prevention order. On 3 October, Howes was sentenced to 18 months behind bars, including six months for breaking a suspended sentence.
PC Areolito Gashi said: “When an offender receives a sexual harm prevention order the restrictions on their conduct are explained and they sign to confirm they understand what is required of them. Howes failed to demonstrate he could be trusted whilst at large in the community and must now reflect on his failure whilst behind bars.”
