Child Rapist Caged for 19 Years After Two Decades of Abuse in Margate
Brave Victim Sparks Major Police Hunt
A vile predator has finally been locked up for 19 years after terrorising a child in Margate for nearly 20 years. Stephen Rilley, 63, from Hastings Avenue, was hauled before the courts following a Kent Police investigation that kicked off in January 2025.
The probe began when the victim showed tremendous courage by speaking out. Shocking evidence revealed Rilley used threats and forced the child to swallow sleeping tablets to keep control and silence over two decades of abuse.
Harsh Sentence and Lifetime Sex Offender Status
In August 2025, Rilley admitted 11 charges, including multiple rapes. On Thursday 16 October 2025, he was slammed with a 19-year jail term. Once released, he will serve an additional three years on licence and remain on the sex offenders register for life.
Detective Constable Chris Radley said: “This sentence reflects the gravity of the offences committed and the extent of the suffering endured by the victim over many years. I am pleased that such a depraved man has been brought to justice.”
“I would like to praise the victim for the courage she has shown in not only coming forward, but for her continued involvement in a challenging investigation.”
