Medway Sex Offender Jailed for Grooming Kids Online
A 68-year-old Medway man has been slammed with a nine-year jail sentence for trying to groom and abuse children on social media.
David Smith Used Snapchat, WhatsApp and Kik to Target Children
David Smith, from Childscroft Road, Rainham, exploited popular apps like Snapchat, WhatsApp, and Kik to hunt victims as young as 12. He was caught after a Kent Police probe uncovered his vile attempts to contact and groom youngsters.
Horrific Chats With Fake ‘Jake’ and Real Victim From Essex
Smith believed he was chatting with a 12-year-old boy named Jake—who didn’t actually exist but was part of a sting operation. The conversations turned explicit quickly, with Smith pushing Jake to send photos from school and plotting to meet and abuse him.
In February 2024, officers linked Smith to a real 14-year-old victim in Essex, whom he also tried to exploit.
Guilty Plea and Long Sentence
Smith, also known as Andrew Fowler, admitted multiple offences at Maidstone Crown Court, including sexual communication with a child and arranging child sex offences. His crimes span from August 2023 to January 2024.
On Friday 13 September, Smith was handed nine years behind bars. He must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before parole and will face an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and extended licence conditions when released.
Police Warn Parents to Stay Vigilant
DC Barbara Zamorska said: ‘Smith made persistent, repeated efforts to sexually abuse children. While “Jake” was fake, the Essex victim was very real and vulnerable, just 14 years old. Smith manipulated the child by claiming suicidal feelings and even sent money after his arrest to keep control.
‘The graphic and disturbing nature of Smith’s messages is deeply worrying. This case is a stark warning to parents: talk to your kids about internet safety. They should only chat with people they know personally and must report any suspicious behaviour to parents, schools, or the police.’
