Maidstone man jailed for 7 years after police dog sniffs out invisible DNA linking him to child sex offences.
Gruesome Grooming and Assault on Quarry Road
Lloyd Cundall, 27, from Brenchley Road, used social media to groom a teenage girl. He lured her to hidden spots around Quarry Road — woodlands, alleyways, and other secluded areas.
There, Cundall supplied the victim with cocaine, cannabis, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and alcohol. He then pressured her into performing sexual acts.
Police Dog Belle Sniffs Out Hidden DNA Evidence
Cundall was arrested on 24 September 2024. Police Dog Belle played a crucial role in the investigation by locating DNA evidence invisible to the naked eye. Without Belle’s sharp nose, key samples might have been washed away by adverse weather conditions.
DC Laura Bowness of Kent Police said: “PD Belle easily pinpointed where the offence took place. Her contribution was vital, especially after heavy rain threatened to destroy evidence.”
Cundall Gets Tough Sentence at Maidstone Crown Court
At Maidstone Crown Court, Cundall pled guilty to eight counts of sexual activity with a child. On 21 May 2025, he was sentenced to:
- Seven years and six months behind bars
- Extended four-year licence after release
- 15-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO)
Detective Praises Victim’s Bravery, Condemns Offender
DC Bowness said: “This lengthy custodial sentence fits Cundall’s vile crimes. He exploited a vulnerable girl and showed no remorse throughout.”
“We are incredibly grateful to the victim for her courage in reporting the abuse swiftly, allowing us to build a strong forensic case.”
