TERENCE CLOVER FROM WATERINGBURY SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN MAIDSTONE

In November 2019, a disturbing case unfolded involving Terence Clover, a 78-year-old man from Wateringbury, who was found guilty of heinous sexual offenses against young children. The court proceedings revealed a pattern of manipulative and predatory behavior by Clover, who lured children into his caravan under the guise of offering them entertainment and gifts, specifically promising access to a PlayStation console.

Prosecutors detailed how Clover exploited the trust of vulnerable children, using the promise of small rewards to entice them into his vehicle. Once inside, he subjected them to sexual assault, an act that has left lasting trauma on the victims. The jury at Maidstone Crown Court carefully examined the evidence, which included testimonies from the victims and digital evidence recovered from Clover’s computer. Despite his claims of altruism, claiming he showered the children with presents out of kindness, the court rejected his narrative, convicting him on nine separate charges.

During the trial, it was revealed that Clover’s criminal history extended back decades, with previous convictions for rape and indecent assault in 1984 and 1999 involving victims aged seven and twelve. Despite these past convictions, police had issued warnings to Clover, instructing him not to have children in his caravan. However, he blatantly ignored these warnings, continuing to use his Wi-Fi connection as a tool to lure and sexually abuse young boys.

Judge Adele Williams addressed Clover directly, emphasizing the severity of his actions. She stated that the evidence against him was “clear and compelling,” and highlighted the profound impact his crimes had on the victims, describing them as “traumatized, distressed and confused.” The judge condemned Clover’s lack of remorse, noting that he showed no insight into the gravity of his offenses and continued to deny any sexual interest in children. Her words underscored her belief that Clover is a predatory paedophile who targeted young victims for his own sexual gratification.

As a result of his convictions, Clover was sentenced to six years in prison. Additionally, he will serve a further three years on license upon release, with a minimum of four years before he can apply for parole. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness of his crimes and the need to protect the community from further harm.

The case also included a disturbing account from one of the victims, a schoolchild who confided in his mother about being sexually touched by Clover. The child recounted that Clover had pulled his trousers down and touched him inappropriately, even slapping his bottom during the incident. The child also described how Clover falsely claimed to have £5,000 in a bank account and promised to pay for online PlayStation games, further illustrating the manipulative tactics used to groom young victims.

Following the report, police launched an investigation that uncovered additional evidence. It was revealed that Clover had been grooming another child by promising gifts, and digital evidence on his computer confirmed his involvement in these predatory activities. The case highlights the ongoing threat posed by individuals like Clover, who exploit trust and manipulate vulnerable children for their own depraved purposes.