A Margate man who subjected a child to repeated sexual abuse over a seven‑year period has been jailed.
Edward Watson, formerly of Garrard Avenue, Margate, began abusing his victim in 1990 when he was around 13 years old and the victim was much younger.
Over seven years, he repeatedly assaulted them, often locking them in a room before carrying out the offences.
The abuse came to light in September 2023 after the victim disclosed what had happened to a trusted relative, who encouraged them to report it to Kent Police. Detectives launched an immediate investigation, and Watson was arrested three days later.
He was later charged with 12 sexual offences including gross indecency, indecent assault and unlawful sexual intercourse.
Watson denied the offences but was convicted on all counts following a 10‑day trial at Canterbury Crown Court.
On Thursday 5 March, the 49‑year‑old was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment. He will remain on the sex offenders register for life, and a restraining order has been imposed to protect the victim.
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Susan Kingsnorth, said: “Historic cases like this demonstrate that it is never too late to seek justice. Kent Police will always listen, we will always investigate, and we will do everything in our power to bring offenders before the courts.
“I also want to commend the bravery shown by the victim. Coming forward after so many years, recounting traumatic experiences, and supporting a lengthy investigation has ensured that this offender has been held accountable.”
Four years for rape, waoooowww! Is this because it’s labelled unlawful sexual intercourse? Grand words for a fact, which should deserve at least 20 years!
I suspect the fact he was 13 when he committed the first act has played into sentencing.
13-20 years seem to be the years of the offences 30 years ago. For someone to commit these acts at 13 is shocking and there is so much to unpick from the story outlined above
You would have never have know it as school-he was never in any trouble, pretty quiet & friendly. Lots of kids from there that were troublemakers you could believe this kind of thing from & went on to get in trouble for various things after leaving school like violent assaults, racism, shoplifting etc, but shocking & sickening that the last couple of years at school with him he was doing this & carried on for another five years after.
Let him go to the same prison Huntley was in ,the enjoy life
wise words from ray the bread , lets hope this animal gets whats coming to him ,a vile excuse for a human being .
Went to school with him-just shows you never know.
Four years?! Duncan Bayles got 28 years, i hope this lenient sentence is challenged.
Why do we put up with these scum! People like this should be disposed of any way possible.i await the do-gooders to reply!
My heart goes out to the poor child that was terribly abused and the years of mental scars that they are probably carrying.