MATT STEPHENS GROOMS AND SEXUALLY ABUSES TEENAGE GIRL NEAR SILVERSTONE AND THANET

In June 2017, a disturbing case unfolded involving Matt Stephens, a man with a history rooted in the racing world, who was convicted of grooming and sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl from Thanet. The incident came to light after Stephens, then 36 years old, used a brand-new Renault Megane to lure the young girl into a series of manipulative and abusive encounters.

According to court proceedings, Stephens, who was once known as a rally driver, targeted the teenage victim through online interactions, initially engaging her in a teen chatroom. He presented himself as a 29-year-old man, although he was actually 36, and used his charm to gain her trust. His intentions soon turned sinister as he persuaded her to meet in person, claiming he was traveling from Oxford to Margate under the pretext of exploring business opportunities. The jury rejected this excuse, recognizing it as a cover for his true motives.

Once they met, Stephens took advantage of her innocence. The court heard that he began to fondle her, leaving her feeling confused and stunned by his actions. Their meetings included visits to locations such as the Old Water Treatment Works outside Birchington and a pub in Margate, where he continued to sexually assault her. The abuse escalated during a trip to Thanet, where he booked a hotel near Yorkletts. There, he further manipulated her by offering Champagne and strawberries before subjecting her to more sexual abuse.

One of the most disturbing aspects of the case was Stephens' use of a new Renault Megane to groom the girl. The court was told that he showed her the car because of her interest in automobiles, but this was a calculated move to manipulate her further for his own sexual gratification. The victim, overwhelmed and embarrassed, was unable to resist his advances, which she later documented in a diary. She even wrote to the 'Dear Deirdre' column of The Sun seeking advice, revealing the trauma she endured.

Despite her suffering, the victim's courage in coming forward led to Stephens' arrest. During the trial, he dismissed her allegations as the fantasies of a fantasist, but evidence including her diary and the 'Dear Deirdre' letter proved otherwise. The jury found Stephens guilty of 12 sex-related charges, leading to his sentencing.

Judge Recorder Gareth Branston sentenced Stephens to a total of eight years in prison. In his remarks, the judge emphasized the predatory nature of Stephens' actions, highlighting how he exploited the victim's naivety and manipulated her for sexual gain. The judge also pointed out that Stephens' actions were a breach of trust and a serious threat to the safety of children, underscoring the importance of protecting vulnerable minors from such predators.

Matt Stephens, now 51 and residing in Silverstone, Northamptonshire, was taken into custody following his conviction. His case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals who exploit online platforms and manipulate young victims for their own depraved purposes.