LEE ROALF FROM LYDD SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES INVOLVING YOUNG GIRLS IN ASHFORD AND CANTERBURY

In a case that has shocked the local community, Lee Roalf, a 37-year-old man from Lydd, has been sentenced to nearly eight years in prison after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offences involving two young girls. The crimes took place over a span of two years, with the victims aged between 12 and 14 at the time of the abuse.

Roalf, who had been a longstanding helper with the 7th Ashford Cubs for 15 years, worked alongside his father, Brian, who served as the group scout leader. His role within the scouting organization was meant to foster trust and mentorship among young children, but instead, he exploited that position for his own illicit purposes.

During the proceedings at Canterbury Crown Court, prosecutor Andrew Espley detailed the disturbing nature of Roalf’s actions. He explained that the abuse was systematic and targeted, with Roalf engaging in inappropriate conduct with the two girls over a period of time. The first girl confided in her mother last year, which ultimately led to the investigation and subsequent conviction.

According to the prosecution, Roalf had shown a pattern of predatory behavior. He was accused of tightly cuddling the first girl, showing her sex toys, and touching her bottom while attempting to kiss her. The second girl was subjected to coercion into performing a sex act, with Roalf repeatedly touching her indecently and encouraging her to touch him inappropriately.

Roalf, who denied all allegations, claimed to be a 'cuddly person' and insisted that there had been no inappropriate touching. Despite his denials, Judge David Mitchell described his conduct as predatory, emphasizing that Roalf had preyed on vulnerable children.

In his defense, Tanya Robinson highlighted Roalf’s previously good character and pointed out that he had not been violent towards the girls. Nevertheless, the court found sufficient evidence to convict him of six charges of sexual activity with a child and two indecent assaults.

Roalf, who works as a removal man and resides on Coast Drive in Lydd, was sentenced to seven years and nine months in prison. He was also ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was banned from working with children for a period of 15 years. Additionally, he was placed under a sexual offences prevention order for 15 years, which imposes strict restrictions on any contact with minors and includes various other controls to prevent further offending.