Kent Paedophile Faces Minimum 10 Years Behind Bars
A vile paedophile from Edenbridge has been warned he’s looking at a decade or more in prison. Andrew Gibbs, 53, from Uckfield, was convicted of systematically abusing a young child between 2006 and 2008.
Systematic Abuse and Terrifying Threats
Gibbs repeatedly raped and abused his victim, forcing the child to watch pornography and threatening further attacks if the abuse was ever revealed. The trauma left scars on the child and their family, who were forced to endure the drawn-out court battle.
Kent Police Crack the Case
Kent Police launched their investigation after receiving allegations on 19 October 2016. They arrested Gibbs on 3 November 2016 at his Edenbridge home. Forensic analysis uncovered almost 100 indecent images of children, including the worst category of abuse. It also revealed Gibbs used software to try and erase his horrific online secrets.
Convicted on All Counts
At Maidstone Crown Court, Gibbs faced multiple charges including rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, inciting sexual activity, and making indecent photographs of children. He pleaded not guilty, but a jury unanimously convicted him on 14 May 2018.
Recorder Mark Weekes said: “These are horrifying offences and it will be a substantial sentence in double digits.”
Courage Pays Off – Justice Served
Detective Sergeant David Turner praised the victim’s bravery, saying:
“Gibbs targeted and repeatedly abused a very young child in some of the most abhorrent ways imaginable. Thankfully, he’s now behind bars where he can no longer harm children. This case proves it’s never too late to report sexual offences – we handle all reports with confidence and sensitivity.”
Gibbs was remanded in custody and will be sentenced on 28 June. The community hopes this nightmare has finally ended for the victim and their family.
