Kent’s top detectives are cracking down hard on predators and fraudsters preying on the vulnerable. February saw a string of heavy jail sentences, guilty verdicts, and fresh charges handed down by the Public Protection Command.
Jail Time for Child Abusers and Predators
- Sam Levett, 34, Gravesend: Locked up for 15 years after multiple rapes and sexual assaults on a child between 2019 and 2020. Must serve at least 10 years and is slapped with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. Detective Sgt Matthew Childs and DC Chris Taylor hailed for their relentless Old Bailey probe.
- Alan Davies, 45, ex-Gravesend: Admitted to 73 shocking sexual offences against 39 victims spanning 20 years. Used hidden cameras to film women and children undressing, sharing footage online. Sentencing set for July 17 at Maidstone Crown Court.
- Gordon Jackson, 69, Deal: Jailed three years for sexually touching a child during private math lessons. Also hit with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order at Canterbury Crown Court.
- Lewis Stevens, 33, no fixed address: Found guilty of multiple rapes and assaults involving children in Maidstone. Sentencing due April 20.
New Arrests Targeting Child Exploitation & 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 on online child sex offences and possession of child abuse images. Sentencing set for 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.
Police Chief Praises Victims and Officers
“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 think won’t speak out, but many victims have shown huge bravery helping us bring them to 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 always available when they’re ready.”
Stay Safe: Know Your Rights with Sarah’s Law & Clare’s Law
Kent Police run the Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme (Sarah’s Law). It lets parents check if someone poses a risk to their child through criminal record disclosure. They also offer the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (Clare’s Law), which informs people about abusive current or former partners. Full details are on the Kent Police website.
