SERIAL RAPIST FROM MAIDSTONE SENTENCED TO 21 YEARS FOR COLD CASE CRIMES
John Clayson from Upper Fant Road, Maidstone, was convicted of serious sexual offences including rape, false imprisonment, and indecent assault.The crimes took place in a multi-story carpark in Gravesend in 1990.
He was sentenced to 21 years in prison after a jury at Maidstone Crown Court found him guilty of the charges.
Clayson was initially arrested in 2015 for breaching sex offender registration conditions, which led to a new DNA sample being taken.
This evidence matched DNA found on a stocking at the crime scene, leading to further charges and convictions.
He was charged with multiple offences, including two counts of false imprisonment, two serious sexual offences, attempted rape, and possession of an offensive weapon.
The convictions included five of the eight charges, covering the 1990 rape and other offences between 1988 and 1994.
The case highlights how cold case investigations can uncover past crimes years later, demonstrating the police's commitment to justice regardless of the elapsed time.
This case serves as a stern reminder that no matter how much time passes, offenders can still be brought to account.
