KENNETH MOCKFORD SENTENCED TO 14 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN OFFHAM AND NEAR WEST MALLING

In a significant case that has drawn widespread attention, Kenneth Mockford, a man from Offham, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 14 years after being convicted of multiple historic sexual offences committed against two young children. The crimes took place during the 1970s and 1980s, with locations including Larkfield and areas near West Malling, highlighting the disturbing nature of the offenses and the long-standing impact on the victims.

Mockford, who was 73 years old at the time of sentencing, appeared before Maidstone Crown Court on 20 July. He was already serving a separate six-year sentence for child sex offences stemming from an unrelated conviction in 2013. The recent trial revealed a pattern of abuse that Mockford carried out over several years, during which he employed manipulative tactics to silence his victims. One of the victims recounted how Mockford told her that their secret was safe and that she was 'special,' a tactic used to prevent her from disclosing the abuse to anyone else.

During the proceedings, Mockford denied numerous allegations, attempting to dismiss the accusations as false. However, after a thorough trial, the jury found him guilty of 11 counts of indecent assault against a child and four counts of gross indecency with a child. The court's decision underscores the severity of his actions and the importance of justice for the victims.

Judge Philip Statman delivered a powerful statement during the sentencing, praising the resilience and bravery of the victims. He described them as 'the bravest of the brave,' acknowledging the courage it took for them to come forward and face their abuser after so many years. The case has once again highlighted the importance of addressing historic child abuse and supporting survivors in their pursuit of justice.