A former Margate resident convicted of non-recent child sexual offences committed in the UK and abroad has been jailed.
In 2019, the Met Police launched an investigation alongside authorities from the United States of America (USA), France and Israel after two men came forward stating that they had been assaulted more than a decade ago.
Jair Klein, 55, of Majestic Court, Margate was found guilty at Harrow Crown Court on Wednesday, 19 July of five sexual offences committed against two victims.
The charges were:
– Three counts of sexual activity with a child that was aged 10 or 11;
– One count of sexual activity with a child that was aged 13 or 14;
– One count of sexual activity with a child that was aged 14 or 15.
He was found not guilty of a further two counts of sexual activity with a child.
At the Old Bailey on Thursday, 24 August he was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment, extended on licence to 16 in recognition of the danger he poses.
He will also be the subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for an indeterminate period.
The father of one of Klein’s victims, said: “This conviction could never have happened without the dedicated professionalism and determination of the Metropolitan Police and the CPS, who were there every step of the way to ensure justice, treating us with consideration and dignity. It has been a difficult journey, but well worth it, and we are delighted with the result.”
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, said: “Klein abused the trust that had been placed in him by two young children. Whilst the offending started in Barnet, he followed them abroad where he continued to offend.
“I would like to praise the bravery of these men in coming forward and telling officers about what happened. Having pleaded not guilty, Klein forced them to recount their experiences in court. But again, they found the strength to speak out – ultimately leading to this conviction.
“I would also like to thank the authorities in the USA, France and Israel for assisting us with our investigation regarding matters overseas.”
In December 2019, officers from the Met were contacted by two men who informed them that they had been sexually abused – by the same suspect – in the United Kingdom, USA and France between 2010 and 2014.
They detailed how Klein had given them gifts and taken them on days out, including to a swimming pool where he would watch them undress. Once alone, he would abuse them.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Philip Maunders launched a highly complex investigation, and on 27 September 2019, Klein was arrested. He provided a prepared statement in which he denied the allegations, making no further comment.
The investigation gathered further evidence and the witness accounts provided harrowing details. The investigation continued, and on 11 June 2022, he was charged.
During the course of the trial the courts heard that Klein had a previous conviction from Israel 2014 for a similar offence for which he received a three year custodial sentence for.
DC Maunders, said: “Klein was a master manipulator who groomed two children and their families to make them believe he could be trusted with their care.
“I would like to thank the families for their courage and tenacity throughout the investigation and the whole court process.
“I also encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse, whether in the past or recently, to contact police, or any number of charities who can provide support. The Met remain determined to bring perpetrators before the courts.”
