Child Groomer Busted in Kent Park After Police Worker Spots Suspicious Car
Predator Caught Red-Handed in Sittingbourne
Asif Mirza, 43, has been jailed for preying on a young girl in Swale. The sex offender groomed his victim online before luring her to a park in Sittingbourne. Mirza was found with the girl inside his car after a vigilant Kent Police staff member noticed something was off.
Online Grooming Turns Physical
Mirza first contacted the girl via social media early in 2024, pretending to be sympathetic when she shared personal issues. After gaining her trust, he pushed her to send indecent images. They arranged to meet in August, and when the girl felt unwell, Mirza convinced her to sit in the back of his car. He then covered the windows and committed an indecent act.
Quick-Thinking Police Employee Saves the Day
A police worker spotted the suspicious car in Avenue of Remembrance and called officers. Mirza claimed the girl was his step-daughter but bungled the story when he couldn’t provide her full name. Caught out, he admitted they met online and was promptly arrested.
Four Years Behind Bars for Groomer
At Maidstone Crown Court, Mirza pleaded guilty to multiple offences including sexual activity with a child and meeting a child following grooming. He was sentenced to four years in prison on 5 November.
Detective Constable Lucas Melella said: “Mirza contacted a vulnerable child online, gained her trust, then arranged to meet for his own sexual gratification. Thanks to an alert Kent Police worker, this predator was caught swiftly, and the victim was safeguarded.”
“This case is a warning to parents to talk to their children about online safety. Kids should only speak to people they know and report any suspicious or inappropriate behaviour to parents, schools or police.”
