SITTINGBOURNE SEX OFFENDER MATTHEW SMITH SENTENCED TO 23 YEARS FOR CHILD ABUSE

A man from Sittingbourne, Matthew Smith, has been handed a lengthy prison sentence after a series of heinous crimes involving the sexual abuse of vulnerable children over a span of several years. The disturbing case highlights the severity of his offenses and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to bring justice to his victims.

Smith’s criminal activities began in 2008, marking a period of over a decade during which he targeted four different children. His predatory behavior persisted over the years, causing significant trauma to those affected. It was only in 2020 that one of his victims, after enduring years of abuse, chose to confide in a trusted third party about their ordeal. This disclosure prompted the victim to contact the police, initiating a comprehensive investigation into Smith’s actions.

Following the report, authorities swiftly moved to apprehend Smith. On March 1, 2020, he was arrested at his residence in Sittingbourne. The police subsequently charged him with multiple serious offenses, including rape, sexual assault, and inappropriate touching of children. Additionally, Smith faced charges related to online communication with another victim, which involved inappropriate sexual contact via digital means.

Throughout the legal proceedings, Smith maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges at Maidstone Crown Court. However, after a thorough trial, the jury found him guilty of 32 separate indictments, confirming the extent of his criminal conduct.

On January 24, 2025, Smith, who was 39 years old at the time, was sentenced to an extended term of 31 years in prison. The court determined that he must serve a minimum of 23 years before becoming eligible for parole, which equates to serving two-thirds of his sentence. Upon release, he will be subject to an additional eight years on license, during which he will be closely monitored.

Furthermore, Smith will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order and mandatory sex offender notification requirements for the remainder of his life. These measures are designed to prevent any further offenses and to protect the community from potential harm. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat child exploitation and bring perpetrators to justice in Sittingbourne and beyond.