EX-CONSERVATIVE COUNCILLOR DAVID KIRTON OF HARLOW JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES INVOLVING 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In a case that has shocked the community of Harlow, David Kirton, a 55-year-old former Conservative councillor, has been sentenced to eight years in prison after admitting to sexually abusing a 13-year-old girl. The offences took place over an eight-month period, during which Kirton, who held a seat in the Staple Tye ward following his election in May of the previous year, engaged in a series of inappropriate and criminal acts against the young girl.

Kirton’s misconduct was not limited to physical acts; it also involved a pattern of grooming behavior that included sending flirtatious texts and engaging in online conversations. He used platforms such as MSN Messenger to communicate with her, during which he made remarks like, “Babe – you’re a gorgeous woman,” indicating a disturbing level of infatuation and inappropriate familiarity. These messages, along with his verbal exchanges, revealed a troubling obsession that culminated in multiple sexual offences.

The court heard that the initial contact between Kirton and the girl was seemingly innocent, with Kirton greeting her with a kiss on the cheek. However, this quickly escalated to more intimate gestures, including kisses on the head and lips, as well as flirtatious winks and compliments about her appearance. Prosecutor Chris Paxton detailed how Kirton’s behavior intensified over time, with the communication becoming increasingly suggestive and personal. By February 2008, Kirton had reportedly declared his love for her, further blurring the boundaries of appropriate conduct.

The first sexual assault occurred at Kirton’s residence when his partner was not present. The court was told that the girl was initially going out for a casual activity, such as bowling, on October 6, but Kirton picked her up and took her back to his home, where he committed another sexual assault. The girl later recounted these events, which left her feeling distressed and upset. Her parents became suspicious after discovering messages from Kirton, including one stating, “I cannot stop thinking about you,” prompting them to contact the police.

When questioned, the girl clarified that their encounters did not involve full sexual intercourse, but the acts were nonetheless serious and criminal. Following the allegations, police were contacted, and Kirton voluntarily surrendered himself at Harlow Police Station on October 12, 2008. During his police interview, Kirton expressed remorse, stating, “I am disappointed in myself,” and, “You know me, I am sorry.”

Throughout the period of the offences, the girl exhibited signs of emotional distress, being described as “tearful and upset” when discussing the incidents. Despite her initial emotional turmoil, she eventually settled down, although her reactions during the investigation underscored the trauma she experienced. The court was also informed that her behavior was sometimes “snappy and argumentative,” reflecting her inner turmoil.

In mitigation, Kirton’s legal representative, Martyn Levett QC, argued that the relationship was initiated through messages and pictures exchanged from the girl’s computer, emphasizing that Kirton did not use threats or bullying to coerce her into sexual activity. He pointed out that when the girl expressed her desire for the activity to stop, Kirton complied. The defense also highlighted that the girl was affectionate towards Kirton, often hugging and kissing him, which they argued contributed to Kirton’s infatuation rather than predatory intent. Mr. Levett concluded by stating that Kirton had sincerely apologized for his actions.

Judge Rodger Hayward Smith, presiding over the case at Chelmsford Crown Court, sentenced Kirton to eight years in prison. The judge also ordered that Kirton be placed on the sex offenders register for life, banned him from working with children indefinitely, and imposed a sexual harm prevention order to restrict his future conduct. Addressing Kirton directly, the judge remarked, “You must have known this was wholly wrong,” emphasizing the gravity of his misconduct and the breach of trust involved in the case.