STEPHEN BETTS FROM CHATHAM SENTENCED TO FIVE YEARS FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE
In July 2017, Stephen Betts, a resident of Maida Road in Chatham, was sentenced to a five-year prison term after being convicted of serious sexual offenses involving a very young child.The court found that Betts posed a significant danger of reoffending, leading to the extended sentence.
Betts, aged 29 at the time, faced charges including the sexual assault of a child under the age of 13 and causing a child to engage in sexual activity.
He denied these allegations throughout the proceedings.
However, the judge overseeing the case stated that the evidence presented in May was both clear and compelling, leading to his conviction despite Betts’s continued denial.
The case came to light after a young girl, who was under six years old at the time, disclosed to her mother that Betts had touched her inappropriately.
She described the incident as “cuddling” but later demonstrated to her mother that Betts had performed a sex act on her.
The child also revealed that Betts had encouraged her to touch him indecently.
When questioned about these allegations, Betts insisted, “I wouldn’t do that.” A recorded interview with the child, during which she was observed drawing pictures, was presented to the jury as part of the evidence.
The incidents in question occurred between 2014 and 2016, spanning over two years.
The case proceeded to trial, where the jury unanimously found Betts guilty of the charges.
As part of his sentence, Betts will serve two-thirds of his five-year term before being eligible for parole.
Additionally, he will be on licence for a further two years after his release.
Judge Adele Williams addressed the court, emphasizing the vulnerability of the young victim.
She stated, “You used her to meet your sexual needs.
Her evidence was compelling.
She was particularly vulnerable due to her extreme youth.” The judge also highlighted Betts’s lack of remorse and insight, remarking, “It is quite clear you are in denial.
You lack any insight into your offending and I consider you pose a significant risk of serious harm to children by the commission of further offences.”
