KEVIN KING GROOMS 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL ON BURY ST EDMUNDS WEBSITE AND MEETS HER AT FOLKESTONE BEACH

In a disturbing case that highlights the dangers of online grooming, Kevin King, a man from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, has been convicted of engaging in a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl he met through a website designed for vulnerable individuals who have experienced abuse or self-harm.

According to court proceedings, King, aged 22, initially presented himself as a sympathetic confidante on the platform Recover Your Life, a site often used by those seeking support for emotional or psychological struggles. He established a seemingly trusting relationship with the young girl, who was clearly vulnerable and receptive to his manipulative tactics.

Prosecutor Hanna Llewellyn-Waters explained that King’s approach was carefully calculated to flatter and gain the girl’s affection. He portrayed himself as a friendly, approachable adult, but his true intentions soon became apparent. During the course of their communication, which included instant messaging, webcam interactions, and mobile phone contact, King gradually manipulated her, attempting to build a sense of trust and intimacy.

At one point, King confessed to having fallen for the girl, claiming he struggled to resist her because she was only 14. He admitted that he tried to suppress his feelings but ultimately could not resist the temptation. The court heard that he arranged to meet her at Folkestone beach, a location he had previously visited for similar meetings. However, on the day of the planned encounter, her stepfather intervened, going to the beach instead and capturing photographs of King in the act.

King’s actions did not go unnoticed, and he was arrested shortly thereafter. When questioned, he responded with a simple, “Fair enough,” denying any intent to engage in sexual activity with the girl. Despite his denial, the jury found him guilty of meeting a child following sexual grooming, a serious offence.

It was also revealed that King had a criminal history prior to this case. In January 2005, he was convicted at Loughborough Magistrates Court for possessing indecent images of children and sentenced to four months in youth custody. Additionally, he has previous convictions for indecent exposure, harassment, and threats to kill an ex-girlfriend.

Following his conviction at Maidstone Crown Court, King was sentenced to 33 months in prison. The court also imposed an indefinite ban on him working with children and issued a sexual offences prevention order to prevent further harm. The case underscores the ongoing risks posed by individuals with a history of sexual offences and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable young people from online predators.