MARTIN FREEMAN FROM ASHFORD ARRESTED FOR PLOTTING TO ABUSE TWO GIRLS IN KENT

In December 2019, a disturbing case emerged involving Martin Freeman, a 51-year-old man formerly residing in Oakenpole, Ashford. Freeman was apprehended after attempting to arrange the abuse of two young girls, a plan that he had meticulously prepared for, including the procurement of gifts intended for his victims.

Freeman appeared before Canterbury Crown Court in August of that year, where he pleaded guilty to two counts of arranging to commit a child sex offence. His admission of guilt marked a significant development in the case, highlighting the severity of his intentions and actions. Following his court appearance, Freeman was remanded into custody, and on Monday, 9 December 2019, he was sentenced to six years in prison.

The investigation revealed that Freeman’s criminal activity began in late July, when he engaged in an online private conversation with an individual named Tom, whom he met in a chatroom. During these exchanges, Freeman engaged in sexually explicit discussions with Tom, who claimed to have two nieces aged 3 and 7. The conversations indicated Freeman’s intent to meet with Tom and the children, with the purpose of sexually abusing them.

The planned meeting was set for 6 pm on 1 August, in a car park adjacent to a hotel in Ashford. However, Freeman’s plans were thwarted when detectives intercepted him before the meeting could take place. He was promptly arrested, and during a search of his vehicle, authorities discovered a bag containing a unicorn soft toy, hair accessories, and packets of sweets. These items were reportedly intended as gifts for the children, as Freeman admitted during police interviews.

In his interview, Freeman confessed to his actions and expressed that he anticipated having sexual contact with the children mentioned in the private web chat. He explained that the toys, sweets, and hair accessories were meant as presents for the young girls, revealing the premeditated nature of his criminal intent.

It was also disclosed during the court proceedings that the individual posing as ‘Tom’ was actually a specially trained undercover police officer. Law enforcement employed this tactic to identify and apprehend individuals like Freeman, who pose a danger to children and the community. The case underscores the ongoing efforts of police to combat online grooming and child exploitation, especially in areas like Ashford and the wider Kent region.