Predator Groomed 13-Year-Old Online Before Repeatedly Abusing Her
Harrison Langford, 28, started grooming a 13-year-old girl on 19 August 2022 through online chat apps. His messages quickly turned sexual, and he pressured the child to send explicit photos.
BMW Ride Turns into Horror in Kent
On 3 September, Langford drove from King Street to Kent to meet the girl. He picked her up in his BMW and sexually abused her in the car. The abuse continued the next day.
Abuse Escalates in Maidstone Hotel
A week later, on 10 September, Langford returned to Maidstone, booking a hotel room. He again met the girl, took her to his room, and subjected her to repeated sexual abuse.
Swift Arrest and Jail Sentence
The girl bravely reported the crimes to Kent Police, who arrested Langford at the hotel. On 14 December, Langford pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court to four offences, including grooming and sexual activity with a child.
He was sentenced to five years in prison. Additionally, he faces an extended three-year licence period and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Investigating officer PC Marcus Easter of the West Kent Vulnerability Investigation Team said:
“Langford purposefully targeted and groomed a child. He repeatedly subjected her to sexual abuse, exploiting her for his own gratification, fully aware of the lasting damage he would cause.
We are grateful to the victim for her bravery in coming forward, and hope today’s sentencing brings her some comfort.
Kent Police is dedicated to tackling all forms of child sexual exploitation and protecting those at risk, with specialist teams supporting victims and prosecuting offenders.”
