A vile predator who abused a primary school child over a period of three years has been jailed for 14 years.
Darren Reynolds, 48, formerly of Margate Road, Broadstairs, was sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court tday (July 28).
Reynolds abused the young girl on numerous occasions before she felt brave enough to report it to her mother in 2016. She said she had been worried nobody would believe her and knew Reynolds would lie about it.
Following a Kent Police investigation, Reynolds was charged with engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child; causing or inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity; and assaulting a girl under 13 by touching.
Reynolds denied the offences but following a trial the jury took just one hour to return with guilty verdicts on all three counts.
He was sentenced to 14 years in prison and must also spend an additional four years on licence.
‘Dangerous’
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Jennifer Brightman said: “In court the judge said Reynolds was a dangerous individual and the sentence reflected that.
“I commend the victim for finding the courage to report it, and her family for their determination to support the case and see justice done.
“Child abusers like Reynolds depend on their victims being too young and too vulnerable as it helps keep their repulsive behaviour secret.
“They prey on the vulnerable and the effect they can have on their victims is devastating.
“Reynolds showed no remorse for what he had done and I am glad the jury saw through his lies.”
Finding help
If you’re concerned a child is already suffering or is likely to be harmed, or if you’re a young person worried about being sexually exploited, there are a number of organisations that can help depending on the circumstances:
- If a child is in immediate danger, dial 999
- If you believe a crime has taken place or you’re worried about a child, dial 101 and quote Operation Willow
- Kent County Council children’s social services – 03000 414444 (out of hours emergency number: 03000 419191)
- Stop CSE – 116000
- NSPCC – 0808 800 5000
- Childline – 0800 1111
- NWG Network
- Children’s Commissioner
- Face up 2 it