LUKE STIMSON FROM FORDCOMBE SENTENCED NEAR TUNBRIDGE WELLS FOR NEARLY 10 YEARS IN PRISON FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES

In a case that has shocked the local community of Fordcombe near Tunbridge Wells, Luke Stimson, a 40-year-old resident of Coopers Lane, was handed a nearly decade-long prison sentence after being found guilty of serious sexual offenses involving a minor. The conviction stems from a series of disturbing acts committed over a span of three years, from 2014 to 2017, which included repeated abuse of a child and the distribution of indecent images of his young victim via online messaging platforms.

Stimson’s arrest was initiated following allegations of abuse that were reported to Kent Police in December 2017. An extensive investigation was launched, during which law enforcement officers seized his mobile phone. Forensic analysis of the device revealed a troubling collection of illegal images, which Stimson had shared through an instant messaging application. This evidence played a crucial role in building the case against him.

During police interviews, Stimson attempted to justify his actions by citing a dependency on alcohol, describing his misconduct as “silly mistakes.” Despite his explanations, the evidence was overwhelming, and at Maidstone Crown Court, he pleaded guilty to multiple charges. These included two counts of sexual assault and one count of sexual assault by penetration. Additionally, he admitted to taking and sharing indecent images of a child, further aggravating his charges.

The court proceedings revealed the full extent of his criminal behavior, which spanned over several years and involved a vulnerable young victim. On Thursday, 18 July 2019, Judge Philip Statman sentenced Stimson to a total of nine years and ten months in prison. The judge also imposed a ten-year sexual harm prevention order, aimed at protecting the public from any future offenses, and mandated that Stimson be registered on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely.

In his remarks, Judge Statman acknowledged the bravery of the victim in coming forward and providing testimony, which was instrumental in securing justice. He also commended Detective Sergeant Lisa Featherstone of the West Kent Vulnerable Investigation Team, praising her dedication and thoroughness, stating she had left “no stone unturned” in the pursuit of justice for the victim. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals from sexual exploitation and abuse.