Canterbury Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 156 verdicts at Canterbury Crown Court (Canterbury, Canterbury). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

April 2026 1 case

Tyla Wanstall

Controlling or coercive behaviour *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Tyla Wanstall subjected his girlfriend to a sustained campaign of domestic abuse from September 2024, including physical violence such as punching her in the arm, face and stomach, striking her with a stool, dragging her by the hair to the edge of a bridge over the Thanet Way where she feared being thrown off, spitting in her face, smacking her head against a car console causing a black eye, and threats to kill her and their pet, snap her jaw, and turn up at her workplace. The abuse involved controlling behaviour, repeated accusations of cheating, bombardment with calls, and humiliation. The relationship began in October 2023 via Snapchat and escalated after incidents of jealousy, including one in December 2024 where he swung an axe and hit her ankle with a stool. Wanstall struggled with PTSD following the discovery of his mother Leah Churchill and sister Brooke Wanstall dead from carbon monoxide poisoning in his Whitstable burger van in February 2023.

Pleaded guilty to assault by beating, controlling/coercive behaviour, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and making a threat to kill. Judge noted PTSD and ADHD but stated behaviour was too serious for suspension. Will serve half less time on remand before release on licence.

1 Apr 2026

March 2026 13 cases

Nicusor Lacatus

Facilitating illegal immigration *

Sentence

6 years imprisonment

Nicusor Lacatus, 53, from Romania, worked on behalf of a UK-based criminal network to recruit HGV drivers willing to move migrants between Dover and Calais. He was arrested by National Crime Agency officers in November at Folkestone’s Stop 24 service station on the M20 as he prepared to leave the UK.

Admitted facilitating illegal immigration.

27 Mar 2026

Richard Mumford

Making and possession of indecent images of children *

Sentence

28 months in prison

Richard Mumford, of St Mary’s Gardens, Canterbury, was found in possession of 7,193 indecent and prohibited images of children during a routine check on his electronic devices in July 2024. Some images depicted victims as young as three years old, with 1,350 classified in the most serious category. Evidence suggested he attempted to delete his internet history. Two swords were also recovered during the search.

Entered a guilty plea for all charges at Margate Magistrates' Court on September 4, 2025. Already on the sex offenders’ register. DS Heidi Collins described his actions as deeply disturbing and reflective of sustained exploitation of children.

18 Mar 2026

Mark Slade

Rape *

Sentence

15 years imprisonment

Mark Slade, a 58-year-old former teacher from Margate, committed historic sexual abuse against a young girl decades ago, including one charge of rape, cruelty to a child, indecency with a child, and possession of indecent images of a child. The abuse involved physical violence such as digging nails into her head, slamming her head into a towel rail, pulling her hair, hitting her in the face, and forcing her to wet herself due to his fetish for children urinating, including taking pictures. Police found child-sized knickers, dresses, school uniforms, and images of children in knee-high socks, pigtails, and urinating at his home. The victim reported the abuse in 2022, leading to his arrest and suspension from St Crispin’s Infant School in Westgate-on-Sea, where he was employed despite a prior conviction. None of the offences were against pupils at that school.

Pleaded not guilty and convicted after trial. Judge noted no remorse or acceptance of offending. Previous conviction for battery of a child in 2009. Suffers from gender dysphoria and displays autistic characteristics. Must serve at least two-thirds in custody, followed by five years on licence. Subject to sexual harm prevention order and restraining order.

13 Mar 2026

James Henson

Burglary *

Sentence

five years’ imprisonment

James Henson, 34, of Martyrs’ Field Road, Canterbury, forced his way into a property in St Mary’s Street, Canterbury, shortly after 1pm on January 4, 2026, and fled after being challenged by an occupant. The following day, around 4pm on January 5, 2026, he broke into an address in London Road, Canterbury, stealing bank cards, credit cards, a mobile phone, and other personal items. He was arrested on January 6, 2026, with stolen goods, including a laptop from one victim, recovered. He was charged on January 7, 2026.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of burglary and handling stolen goods. Detective Constable Daniel Moles noted the significant impact on victims and the sentence's role in safeguarding others.

11 Mar 2026

Mark Baker

Burglary *

Sentence

2 years and 9 months imprisonment

Mark Baker, 40, of East Hall Walk, Sittingbourne, targeted electricity substations across east Kent between September and December 2025, including sites in Ashford, Canterbury, Herne Bay, Margate, and Sutton Valence, Maidstone. Dressed in high visibility clothing, he forced entry using bolt croppers and metal cutters to steal copper earthing and safety equipment, causing power outages affecting dozens of homes and electrical damage with costs exceeding £220,000. He was arrested on December 18, 2025, with stolen items recovered from his property.

Pleaded guilty to multiple offences. Posed as a workman and used specialist tools to break into substations.

10 Mar 2026

James Gavin

Damaging property *

Sentence

12-month jail term suspended for 12 months, 180 hours unpaid work, fined £2,000

James Gavin, a 50-year-old HSBC executive, damaged CCTV cameras installed on land opposite his property in Grove Road, Selling, near Faversham, due to an ongoing dispute with landowner Brian Macey over the storage of wooden pallets posing a fire risk to his timber-structure home. On July 23, 2025, he shot the first camera with his legally-owned shotgun, throwing the remains into a ditch. On July 29, 2025, he shot the replacement camera, then used a drill and axe to remove and discard it and the wooden pole. His actions were captured on a hidden wildlife camera set up by tenant Isabelle O'Shea, who rented the land for her horses. Gavin was arrested that night, confessed immediately, and expressed remorse. The incidents followed three prior fires at the site and council enforcement actions. Victims reported feeling terrified and on edge.

Pleaded guilty to two offences of damaging property and two offences of possessing a shotgun at the time of committing criminal damage. Mental health issues including depressive disorder considered. Judge noted out-of-character behaviour, remorse, and impact of custody on employment and family.

6 Mar 2026

Jordan Williams

Owner of a dog that caused injury while dangerously out of control *

Sentence

6 months custody suspended for 12 months with 150 hours unpaid work

Jordan Williams owned an XL bully dog named Hunter that attacked a baby girl in Hawkinge near Folkestone in December 2024, causing two skull fractures, brain haemorrhages, and thigh tissue damage. The infant was airlifted to King's College Hospital and placed in a medically induced coma but made a remarkable recovery. Williams was upstairs in his bedroom at the time, and the dog was inadequately supervised despite a prior community resolution warning after it bit Williams in 2023. The dog was seized and euthanised.

Disqualified from keeping a dog for 6 years and ordered to pay £200 towards prosecution costs. Pleaded guilty. Judge considered age, remorse, autism, and childhood experiences.

6 Mar 2026

Kasha Sanderson

Smuggling firearms, ammunition and Class A drugs *

Sentence

jailed

Kasha Sanderson was stopped on February 24, 2025, as she drove an Irish registered Peugeot 3008 SUV into the tourist controls at Dover Eastern Docks after arriving on a ferry from Calais. Border Force officers searched the vehicle and found two custom-built hides in the footwells containing 13 weapons including two Skorpion sub-machine guns, an Uzi sub-machine gun, a Glock handgun, nine converted blank firing pistols, 289 rounds of ammunition, and 5kg of heroin valued at £500,000. She was arrested following the discovery.

Admitted smuggling firearms, ammunition and Class A drugs. Claimed she thought she was smuggling cannabis.

5 Mar 2026

Not Stated

Rape *

Sentence

17 years imprisonment

A man who filmed himself drugging his chemsex date before repeatedly raping his unconscious victim shortly before he died has been jailed.

Filmed himself drugging his chemsex date before repeatedly raping his unconscious victim shortly before he died. Described as devoid of any humanity.

5 Mar 2026

Edward Watson

Sexual abuse of a child *

Sentence

4 years imprisonment

Edward Watson, aged 49 and formerly of Garrard Avenue, Margate, subjected a younger child to sexual abuse starting in 1990 when he was a teenager. He carried out several attacks, often locking the victim in a room before the offences. The abuse came to light in September 2023 when the victim disclosed it to a trusted relative, who encouraged reporting to police. Watson was arrested three days later and charged with multiple sexual offences including gross indecency, indecent assault, and unlawful sexual intercourse with a child.

Denied the offences but was convicted on all 12 counts by a jury following a 10-day trial. Will remain on the sex offenders register for life. A restraining order has been imposed to protect the victim.

5 Mar 2026

John King

Importation of cocaine *

Sentence

10 years imprisonment

John King, a 52-year-old lorry driver from Sandgate near Folkestone, was caught on July 24, 2020, arriving at the Port of Dover in his Volvo lorry at 5.25am. Border Force officers uncovered 15 kilograms of high-purity cocaine hidden in the vehicle's air filter and other areas, with a street value of £1.2 million. The tachograph showed multiple stops at a Belgian layby, and his phone contained a photo of a tampered air filter. He initially denied knowledge but later admitted his involvement. No information on other participants or prior trips.

Pleaded not guilty but convicted by jury. Described as an essential cog in a larger drug operation. Mental health struggles and family impact considered in mitigation. Court delays treated as mitigation. Must serve at least half the sentence. Ordered to pay statutory victim surcharge.

4 Mar 2026

Morgan Carter

Being concerned in the supply of cocaine *

Sentence

2.5 years imprisonment

Morgan Carter was involved in the supply of cocaine between November 4 and December 12, 2025. Police discovered a 158g block of cocaine, digital scales, an extendable metal baton, additional cocaine (six 2g bags and 15g in two bags), small quantity of cannabis, white powder residue, and £4,500 cash during a search of his home on December 14, 2025, following an aggravated burglary report. Incriminating phone messages confirmed his independent involvement in supply, including on tick. He also possessed criminal property (cash) and an offensive weapon.

Pleaded guilty. Previous conviction in February 2022 for drug offences resulted in a 20-month jail term suspended for two years. Judge noted he was given a chance to reform but returned to drug dealing. Remorseful, supported by family, addiction linked to mother's terminal illness.

3 Mar 2026

Akindele Balogun

Possession with intent to supply Class A drugs *

Sentence

four years imprisonment

On November 15, 2024, Akindele Balogun, a 43-year-old from Orpington, was driving on the M20 near Ashford when police attempted to stop him for breaching bail conditions related to prior drug supply offences. He refused to stop, drove erratically, and threw white packages containing Class A drugs from the vehicle. Police boxed in his car, arresting him. Two wraps of cocaine and two phones were found in the vehicle, with four additional wraps recovered from the hard shoulder. A search of his home at Emerald House revealed a large block of crack cocaine, blocks of heroin, and £450 in cash. He was sentenced after being found guilty on February 2, 2026.

Found guilty of two counts of possession with intent to supply following a week-long trial. Breached bail and probation conditions by leaving London during curfew and providing false address.

2 Mar 2026

February 2026 11 cases

Anthony Allen

Burglary *

Sentence

2 years, 4 months and 23 days imprisonment

Anthony Allen broke into Rozerin Olgun’s parents’ house in Boxley, Ashford, on Christmas Day 2025, while the family was visiting relatives. He stole jewellery, cash, and AirPods valued at over £3,000, leaving belongings strewn across ransacked rooms. CCTV footage timestamped at 11.33pm captured him lurking through the house and opening drawers. The next day, police traced the stolen AirPods to a house in Stanhope, where Allen hid in the loft but was convinced to surrender by officers. The victims returned to discover the burglary and were left traumatised.

Pleaded guilty to burglary. Extensive criminal record with 25 previous convictions for 55 offences, including two prior burglaries. Judge Paul Goldspring commented on the intrusion into safety and security. Defending counsel Shanda McAteer noted issues with drugs and loss of relatives; Allen apologised through counsel. Must serve at least 40% in custody and pay statutory victim surcharge.

27 Feb 2026

Christopher Bygraves

Theft, assault and fraud *

Sentence

1 year and 6 months imprisonment

On August 23, 2025, at around 11.49pm on Folkestone Road, Dover, Tom McConnell, 31, and Christopher Bygraves, 37, assaulted a man in his 30s in a frightening and unprovoked attack. They punched the victim, stole his phone and wallet, made further threats, and fled on foot. The victim was found with cuts and bruises to his head by members of the public who provided first aid. The offenders used the victim's bank card for fraud at a petrol station. They were arrested on August 29, 2025, and charged the following day.

Pleaded guilty to theft, assault and fraud. Used victim's bank card to pay for goods at a petrol station.

27 Feb 2026

Tom Mcconnell

Theft, assault and fraud *

Sentence

1 year and 8 months imprisonment

Pleaded guilty to theft, assault and fraud. Used victim's bank card to pay for goods at a petrol station.

27 Feb 2026

Matthew Thompson

Rape *

Sentence

9 years imprisonment with an extended licence period of 3 years

On December 6, 2024, Matthew Thompson, 36, of Grampion Close, Ashford, raped his victim, strangled them by squeezing their neck, and falsely imprisoned them by grabbing their hair to restrict movement when they attempted to leave. The incident was reported the following day, leading to his arrest on December 9, 2024, and charges. After a seven-day trial, a jury found him guilty.

Found guilty after a seven-day trial. Denied all accusations. Detective Constable Heidi Cole commented on the horrific ordeal and the victim's courage.

20 Feb 2026

Kevin Wernham

Child rape and sexual abuse *

Sentence

24 years imprisonment with 6 year extended licence period

Kevin Wernham, a 54-year-old mechanic from a caravan park in Aldington, Ashford, was convicted of 28 offences including rape, sexual assault, and causing a child to engage in sexual activity. His systematic abuse spanned two decades, preying on young victims by plying one with alcohol, making others watch pornography, forcing them into sexual acts, and even inviting other men to join. He manipulated victims by calling the abuse a 'shared, special grown-up thing' and warned one not to reveal it. Multiple victims bravely came forward, revealing similar ordeals that caused severe, lifelong psychological harm including mood swings, nightmares, flashbacks, and ongoing fear.

Extended sentence of 30 years comprising 24-year custodial term (must serve at least two-thirds before Parole Board) plus 6 years extended licence; consecutive to prior 4-year determinate sentence (half to be served first); showed no remorse, denied responsibility, and blamed victims; ordered to sign sex offender register for life, subject to sexual harm prevention order, and may be barred from working with children and vulnerable adults.

20 Feb 2026

Renato Selmai

Possession with intent to supply Class A drugs *

Sentence

2 years and 4 months’ imprisonment

Renato Selmai was spotted acting suspiciously by police in Brymore Road, Canterbury, in October 2025. He attempted to flee but was caught. Officers found two sealed packets containing over 300 wraps of cocaine, a Nokia burner phone with messages consistent with drug dealing, an iPhone, and £80 in cash on him. A search of his home revealed additional cocaine, approximately £2,000 in cash, and weighing scales with residue. He was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A drugs. Claimed he was forced into drug dealing due to family debts in Albania.

19 Feb 2026

Clifford Airey

Burglary *

Sentence

876 days imprisonment

On Monday, January 12, 2026, at around 11.30am, Clifford Airey smashed a window and attempted to break into a home in Herne Bay. The victim called Kent Police, who arrived within four minutes. Airey had fled but was pointed out by members of the public, leading to a short foot chase and his arrest. He discarded two screwdrivers in a nearby bush, and upon search, the victim’s passport, bus card, £385 in cash, and car keys were seized from him.

Admitted the offences at his first hearing at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court. Detective Constable Lois Goodman commented on the frightening incident for the victim and her young family, commending the swift actions of officers and public.

17 Feb 2026

Gareth Harnett

Supply of cocaine and cannabis *

Sentence

4 years and 6 months custody

Gareth Harnett was involved in the large-scale supply of cannabis and cocaine across Kent, totaling £92,000 between March and June 2020. He used the encrypted EncroChat platform under the handle 'Zanyenergy' to arrange purchases of large quantities of cannabis (priced £4,500 to £4,750 per kilo) and cocaine, sharing photos of the drugs and confirming deal locations, including in Canterbury and Ramsgate. He distributed the drugs to 'workers' for onward sale. Messages were decrypted by international law enforcement in spring 2020 and passed to Kent Police, leading to his arrest in Newcastle in December 2024.

Admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis. Investigating officer noted his integral role in drug supply.

13 Feb 2026

Aaron Nugent

Actual Bodily Harm *

Sentence

46 months imprisonment

Aaron Nugent, 45, from Faversham, subjected his girlfriend to months of coercive and controlling behaviour after they moved in together quickly. This included jealousy, accusations of infidelity, verbal abuse, isolation, checking her phone, and following her. The first physical violence occurred on November 18, 2025, when drunk, he hit her in the face, leading her son to punch him. He smashed a window to re-enter the house. On November 26, 2025, at midnight, while drunk, he woke her and punched and slapped her face repeatedly, then strangled her until she couldn't breathe, causing bruising and making her fear for her life. He threatened to murder her and pushed her down when she tried to escape. She fled to a neighbour's house to call police. Nugent then smashed her TV. Despite bail conditions, he returned to her home immediately. The victim suffered heightened anxiety and depression.

Pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. Breached a suspended sentence. Engaged in prison activities including oil painting, book club, and courses. Sentencing considered aggravating factors such as previous offending and history of violence against former partner. Subject to 10-year restraining order and £85 victim surcharge.

11 Feb 2026

Duncan Bayles

Indecent assault *

Sentence

28 years imprisonment

Duncan Bayles, a former children's home worker, committed multiple sexual offenses against children in the 1980s and 1990s at children's homes in Ramsgate and Deal. He indecently assaulted five boys under 14, committed acts of indecency with children, and attempted rape on four boys. He also raped and abused a girl, threatening her pets and manipulating her silence. Victims were groomed, bribed with gifts, and manipulated into believing the abuse was normal. Investigations began in June 2019 after a victim reported the abuse, leading to his arrest on August 18, 2020.

Found guilty of 12 counts of indecent assault, 6 counts of indecency with a child, and 1 count of attempted rape in first trial; convicted on additional 17 charges including 4 counts of child rape in second trial. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for life and 2 years on licence after custodial period.

6 Feb 2026

David Jones

Rape *

Sentence

six years and six months imprisonment

David Jones, from Faversham, subjected his victim to two horrific sexual assaults in Sittingbourne in 2022. The victim disclosed the offences to a family member and reported the incidents to police 13 days later, leading to an investigation. Jones, of Feaver Driver, was arrested a few days after the report on suspicion of rape and assault of a female by penetration.

Convicted after an eight-day trial. Subject to a restraining order and required to sign on to the sex offender register for life. Detective Constable Stephanie Wilson noted that Jones took advantage of his victim for his own sexual gratification and subjected her to a horrific sexual assault.

1 Feb 2026

January 2026 10 cases

Christopher Crittenden

Conspiring to facilitate breach of immigration law *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Christopher Crittenden, 45, from South Ockenden in Essex, and his nephew smuggled six Vietnamese nationals from Calais to Dover in 2019. They were caught by Immigration Enforcement officers on 29 September 2019 with five men and one woman hiding under fishing gear in the trailer they were towing. Mobile phone data showed Christopher's prior involvement, including a February 2019 video of him driving a lorry to pick up illegal immigrants and July 2019 WhatsApp chats discussing arrests and breaking the law.

Pleaded guilty to conspiring with others to facilitate the breach of immigration law. Motivated by money, had prior involvement in immigration crime, laughed off risks, and was part of a larger criminal network.

22 Jan 2026

Fred Ketteringham

Violent disorder *

Sentence

24 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years

On December 31, 2022, at Herne Bay Angling Club, Fred Ketteringham, along with Leo Westlake and Toby Shilling, entered the venue around 8pm, causing a nuisance by shouting, swearing, and harassing customers. After being asked to leave, violence escalated with Westlake punching the first victim, and Ketteringham joining in the assault on a second man, kicking him and causing a fractured ankle, head cuts, and permanent tinnitus. The group also assaulted a woman by pulling her to the ground and kicking/punching her, and beat two other victims. One member yelled 'Kill the s***' during the attack. Ketteringham was arrested and charged with four counts of actual bodily harm and one of grievous bodily harm, but pleaded guilty to violent disorder. He has since turned his life around through boxing, signing a professional contract, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle without alcohol or drugs.

Pleaded guilty to violent disorder. Played a lesser role, tried to calm the situation initially. Has 11 previous convictions, none violent since 2016. Ordered to complete 150 hours unpaid work and pay £5,000 compensation to victim Mr Harrison. Judge emphasized focusing on boxing career.

22 Jan 2026

Jake Crittenden

Conspiring to facilitate breach of immigration law *

Sentence

2 year suspended sentence, 240 hours unpaid work, electronic tag for 4 months

Jake Crittenden, 30, from Beckton in East London, assisted his uncle in smuggling six Vietnamese nationals from Calais to Dover in 2019. They were caught by Immigration Enforcement officers on 29 September 2019 with five men and one woman hiding under fishing gear in the trailer they were towing. Initially claimed they were returning from a fishing trip to France.

Pleaded guilty to conspiring with others to facilitate the breach of immigration law. Initially denied knowledge of the migrants.

22 Jan 2026

Leo Westlake

Violent disorder *

Sentence

31 months imprisonment

On December 31, 2022, at Herne Bay Angling Club, Leo Westlake, smelling of cannabis and slurring his words, along with Fred Ketteringham and Toby Shilling, entered the venue around 8pm, causing a nuisance by shouting, swearing, and harassing customers. After being asked to leave, Westlake shouted insults, took off his shirt, pounded his chest, and punched the first victim in the face. He then grabbed a second man from behind, leading to the group kicking him, causing a fractured ankle, head cuts, and permanent tinnitus. Westlake also pulled a woman to the ground, where she was kicked and punched, resulting in nightmares, anxiety, PTSD, loss of confidence, and inability to work. Another victim was punched in the face, and a fourth was lifted against a van and beaten. The group was arrested and charged with four counts of actual bodily harm and one of grievous bodily harm, but pleaded guilty to violent disorder.

Pleaded guilty to violent disorder. Described as the instigator with 10 previous convictions. Judge noted low victim empathy and high risk to the public when intoxicated.

22 Jan 2026

Gavin Power

Aggravated burglary *

Sentence

6 years and 9 months imprisonment

Gavin Power, 41, of Rectory Lane, Brookland, and William Hobday forced their way into a property in Rectory Lane, Brookland, on Romney Marsh, in the early hours of August 26, 2026. Wearing face coverings and armed with a metal pole, they entered a bedroom where a resident was sleeping. Power struck the victim multiple times on the forehead with the pole, while Hobday restrained the victim's arms. A second resident intervened and was also attacked by Power, receiving blows to the head. The victims pulled off the attackers' coverings, identifying them. The suspects fled through the garage and over a wall to a dark-coloured vehicle. Police stopped Power's vehicle the same day; he admitted being in the area and recognized a balaclava from the scene. Forensic evidence linked both to the crime.

Pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary. Part of a planned attack amid an ongoing dispute.

21 Jan 2026

William Hobday

Aggravated burglary *

Sentence

5 years imprisonment

William Hobday, 22, of Lions Road, New Romney, and Gavin Power forced their way into a property in Rectory Lane, Brookland, on Romney Marsh, in the early hours of August 26, 2026. Wearing face coverings and armed with a metal pole, they entered a bedroom where a resident was sleeping. Power struck the victim multiple times on the forehead with the pole, while Hobday restrained the victim's arms. A second resident intervened and was also attacked by Power, receiving blows to the head. The victims pulled off the attackers' coverings, identifying them. The suspects fled through the garage and over a wall to a dark-coloured vehicle. Police stopped Power's vehicle the same day. Hobday was arrested on September 11, 2026, after DNA from saliva on a balaclava matched him, and a search recovered matching clothing seen on CCTV.

Pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary. Part of a planned attack amid an ongoing dispute.

21 Jan 2026

Dragos-Gabriel Geangalau

Assisting unlawful immigration *

Sentence

27 months imprisonment

On November 21, 2025, Dragos-Gabriel Geangalau, a 55-year-old Romanian truck driver, was stopped while attempting to board a ferry from Dover to France in his HGV. Ten people of Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Nepalese origin were found hidden in the back of the truck. Each had paid between £1,000 and £1,500 to make the crossing. After his arrest, Geangalau initially claimed ignorance in a prepared statement but later pleaded guilty.

Pleaded guilty to one count of assisting unlawful immigration. Ordered to pay a £228 victims' surcharge.

16 Jan 2026

Krisian Salaj

Possession with Intent to Supply Class A Drugs *

Sentence

2 years and 3 months imprisonment

On November 1, 2025, at around 9pm, Salaj was detained in Ramsgate driving a silver Mazda. Police found a large quantity of cocaine hidden behind a dashboard panel, along with cash and a mobile phone.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

15 Jan 2026

Kevin Woods

Fraud *

Sentence

2 years imprisonment

Kevin Woods ran a shoddy vehicle repair company, Harman Garage Services Limited, registered in October 2023, which was fronted by another individual but controlled by Woods who handled customer communications, vehicle collections, and financial transactions. The operation involved a complex web of illegal activity including collecting vehicles and not returning them, performing no or poor repairs, promising but not issuing refunds, misleading consumers into paying upfront, using aliases, operating under disqualified status through multiple companies, employing aggressive and deceptive practices, using misleading advertising, and driving customers' vehicles without permission. The activity was triggered by over 100 complaints dating back to March 2019, investigated under Operation Harmonica by Kent Trading Standards. Despite prior warnings and advice, Woods continued trading under his wife's name.

Pleaded guilty to offences under the Fraud Act 2006 and the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. Judge Recorder Janet Bignell KC noted that the victims represented only a fraction of more than 100 complaints, described Woods' actions as a consistent pattern driven by financial gain and wilful disregard for the law, and called his claim of 'silly mistakes' a remarkable understatement. The impact on complainants was dreadful on some and serious on all.

9 Jan 2026

James Finch

Stalking and Revenge Porn *

Sentence

2 years imprisonment

Over four months, Finch bombarded a woman with hundreds of unwanted messages and calls, threatened to kill her and her family, uploaded intimate photos to social media without consent, and sent videos threatening violence including breaking her jaw and burning plastic on her skin.

Pleaded guilty to stalking, making threats to kill, and sharing intimate images without consent. Subject to 5-year restraining order upon release.

6 Jan 2026

December 2025 8 cases

Leah Dane

Engaging in penetrative sexual activity with an underage girl *

Sentence

4 years and 9 months imprisonment

Leah Dane, 44, from Faversham, carried out sexual acts with a teenage girl over a period of months, persuading the victim they were in a relationship. She instructed the teenager to delete incriminating messages to conceal the offending. Teachers alerted authorities, leading to Dane's arrest. Messages showed the girl believed it was a relationship. The abuse had a devastating impact, leaving the victim suicidal, with sleep issues, fear, and pain affecting all aspects of her life.

Pleaded guilty to engaging in penetrative sexual activity with an underage girl. Judge rejected plea for non-custodial sentence due to severity of impact. Imposed sexual harm prevention order and 10-year restraining order. Must serve two-thirds in custody before parole eligibility. Subject to notification requirements for 10 years.

19 Dec 2025

David Derrick

Conspiracy to supply class A drugs *

Sentence

13 years imprisonment

David Derrick, 43, of Ball Lane, Kennington, was involved in a significant operation supplying class A drugs, primarily cocaine, into the Kent region starting from 2021. He directed the operation while his brother acted as courier. Intelligence led to police stopping a vehicle on November 15, 2021, in Ashford, uncovering 3kg of high-purity cocaine intended for exchange with Damien. Phone and call record analysis confirmed multiple drug exchanges. In February 2022, searches at his home revealed small amounts of cocaine and cannabis, six Rolex watches, a knuckle duster, an imitation firearm, and £3,000 cash. Further searches of his safety deposit boxes found 26 Rolex watches and two gold bars.

Directed the drug operation. Found guilty by unanimous jury verdict after a week-long trial. Multiple charges including conspiracy to supply class A drugs and possession with intent to supply class A drug.

12 Dec 2025

Damien Derrick

Conspiracy to supply class A drugs *

Sentence

8 years imprisonment

Damien Derrick, 38, of Burton Road, Kennington, was involved in supplying class A drugs, primarily cocaine, into the Kent region from 2021. He acted as courier in an operation directed by his brother David. On November 15, 2021, police in Ashford stopped a vehicle driven by a courier carrying 3kg of high-purity cocaine concealed in the boot, intended for exchange with Damien. Phone records showed this was part of a series of exchanges. In February 2022, a search of his property uncovered 19 bags of cocaine in his car, five Rolex watches, and £5,000 cash.

Acted mainly as courier in the drug operation. Found guilty by unanimous jury verdict after a week-long trial. Multiple charges including conspiracy to supply class A drugs and possession with intent to supply class A drug.

12 Dec 2025

Rebwar Hamad

Arriving in the UK without valid entry clearance *

Sentence

2 years and 3 months imprisonment

Rebwar Hamad, a 48-year-old Iraqi man and previously convicted terrorist, attempted to illegally enter the UK by small boat on September 19, 2025. He arrived with others and was intercepted by an RNLI lifeboat off the coast of Dover. After being interviewed at Margate police station where he declined to comment, he paid approximately £1,000 (1,200 Euros) for passage on the boat following a refused UK visa application. This was his second illegal entry attempt; he had indefinite leave to remain in the UK since 2001 but was extradited to Italy in 2020 to serve a sentence for terrorism offences convicted in absentia in 2019, after which he was ordered to leave Italy.

Pleaded guilty to arriving in the UK without valid entry clearance. Previously convicted of terrorism offences in Italy in 2019 and extradited in 2020. CPS argued for the toughest sentence possible due to disregard for immigration rules and prior terrorism conviction.

8 Dec 2025

Mohammed Nour Hgar

Manslaughter *

Sentence

9 years imprisonment

On October 10, 2024, shortly before 11.30pm, an altercation occurred in Canterbury High Street during which Mohammed Nour Hgar armed himself with a blade and stabbed Samare Gerezgihir in the chest, causing catastrophic injuries. The victim died in the early hours of October 11, 2024. Both parties were known to each other and had an ongoing conflict. Hgar fled the scene, changed his clothing to evade detection, and was arrested in Herne Bay around 5am the same day. CCTV footage was reviewed as part of the investigation.

Admitted manslaughter on the grounds of excessive self-defence, which was accepted by the court. Sentencing reflects the severity of the senseless attack and demonstrates the dire consequences of arming oneself with a knife.

4 Dec 2025

Sukhjeevan Singh

Robbery *

Sentence

2 years suspended sentence

On July 20, 2024, at around 3am, Sukhjeevan Singh and accomplices broke into a residential address in Ashford where the victim was asleep on the sofa. He awoke to a man brandishing a knife, was threatened, punched, had his hands bound, and was interrogated for valuables while the house was ransacked. The victim fled during the ordeal. Items stolen included designer clothing, jewellery, cash, and the victim's mobile phone. The perpetrators left in the victim's car. A rucksack left behind contained a knife sheath and screwdriver.

Pleaded guilty to assault, false imprisonment, possession of a weapon and burglary.

3 Dec 2025

Luca Gentry-Prosper

Robbery *

Sentence

6 years imprisonment

On July 20, 2024, at around 3am, Luca Gentry-Prosper and accomplices broke into a residential address in Ashford where the victim was asleep on the sofa. He awoke to a man brandishing a knife, was threatened, punched, had his hands bound, and was interrogated for valuables while the house was ransacked. The victim fled during the ordeal. Items stolen included designer clothing, jewellery, cash, and the victim's mobile phone. The perpetrators left in the victim's car. A rucksack left behind contained a knife sheath and screwdriver.

Pleaded guilty to assault, false imprisonment, possession of a weapon and burglary.

2 Dec 2025

Adheem Misson

Robbery *

Sentence

6 years imprisonment

On July 20, 2024, at around 3am, Adheem Misson and accomplices broke into a residential address in Ashford where the victim was asleep on the sofa. He awoke to a man brandishing a knife, was threatened, punched, had his hands bound, and was interrogated for valuables while the house was ransacked. The victim fled during the ordeal. Items stolen included designer clothing, jewellery, cash, and the victim's mobile phone. The perpetrators left in the victim's car. A rucksack left behind contained a knife sheath and screwdriver.

Pleaded guilty to assault, false imprisonment, possession of a weapon and burglary.

2 Dec 2025

November 2025 7 cases

Chase Price

Affray, indecent exposure and threatening a person with a bladed article *

Sentence

21 months imprisonment

On the evening of Thursday, September 4, 2025, Chase Price, aged 29 and of no fixed address, approached a group of strangers in Kings Drive, Faversham. He threw a bin at a man and a glass at a teenager. Price then ran towards a woman while holding a knife and exposed himself in front of several people, including children. He was disarmed by a bystander, exposed himself again, and fled the scene. Kent Police arrested him after a search.

Pleaded guilty to all charges. Two five-year restraining orders imposed. Victim surcharge of £187. Required to sign the Sex Offenders Register.

27 Nov 2025

Jon-Paul Clark

Heroin smuggling *

Sentence

9 years imprisonment

Jon-Paul Clark, 44, of Coney Crescent in Crosby, organised an importation of 40kg of heroin with conspirator Rajesh Bakshi. The load, with a street value of £4million, was stopped at Dover in June 2022. Investigators found Clark’s DNA on the packaging. Clark’s and Bakshi’s phones were identified as travelling in Holland and Belgium in the days leading up to the seizure. A photo of Clark and Bakshi together was found on Clark’s phone taken just days before the drugs were intercepted. Texts were also found of Clark asking Bakshi for cash in the weeks following the seizure.

Convicted by jury after claiming he was framed by a jumper; organised importation with Rajesh Bakshi; DNA found on drug packaging.

27 Nov 2025

Rajesh Bakshi

Heroin smuggling *

Sentence

10 years imprisonment

Rajesh Bakshi, 57, of Burnside Avenue, Haddington, East Lothian, conspired with Jon-Paul Clark to import 40kg of heroin. The load, with a street value of £4million, was stopped at Dover in June 2022. Investigators found Bakshi’s fingerprints on the packaging. Bakshi’s phone was identified as travelling in Holland and Belgium in the days leading up to the seizure. A photo of Clark and Bakshi together was found on Clark’s phone taken just days before the drugs were intercepted.

Admitted smuggling the Class A drug; multiple previous convictions including conspiring and being involved with the supply of a controlled drug; fingerprints found on drug packaging.

27 Nov 2025

Dawood Khan

Attempted Murder *

Sentence

24 years imprisonment

Esmatullah Paktiawal and Dawood Khan forced a white Seat car with three occupants to stop on the live A2 carriageway near the Wincheap junction in Canterbury on December 14, 2024. They unleashed a violent attack using an axe, causing serious head injuries to two victims in their 20s and 30s. The third victim escaped unharmed and assisted with first aid. The suspects fled the scene immediately. Khan left for Afghanistan the day after but returned on January 25, 2025, and was arrested at his London home on January 28.

Pleaded not guilty. Found guilty after a six-week trial. Detective Inspector described the attack as brutal and premeditated.

26 Nov 2025

Esmatullah Paktiawal

Attempted Murder *

Sentence

24 years imprisonment

Esmatullah Paktiawal and Dawood Khan forced a white Seat car with three occupants to stop on the live A2 carriageway near the Wincheap junction in Canterbury on December 14, 2024. They unleashed a violent attack using an axe, causing serious head injuries to two victims in their 20s and 30s. The third victim escaped unharmed and assisted with first aid. The suspects fled the scene immediately. Paktiawal was arrested in Manchester on February 23, 2025, after returning to Napier Barracks in Folkestone post-attack with injuries he claimed were from a fall.

Pleaded not guilty. Found guilty after a six-week trial. Detective Inspector described the attack as brutal and premeditated.

26 Nov 2025

Marius Bajenaru

Facilitating illegal immigration *

Sentence

2 years and 8 months imprisonment

On September 18, 2025, Marius Bajenaru was arrested at Dover Port as part of a National Crime Agency operation. He had 17 people concealed in the back of his Romanian registered panel van. The operation was supported by Port of Dover Police, Kent Police, and Immigration Enforcement.

Romanian national, aged 44. Made a full confession, admitted collecting people from a layby on the A20 near Ashford, stood to be paid £200 per person smuggled. Also had nearly £4,000 in cash found in his vehicle.

25 Nov 2025

Sorin-Costinel Ivan

Facilitating illegal immigration *

Sentence

3 years and 4 months imprisonment

On September 18, 2025, Sorin-Costinel Ivan was arrested at Dover Port as part of a National Crime Agency operation. He had 32 people, mostly Bangladeshi nationals, concealed in the trailer of his HGV. The operation was supported by Port of Dover Police, Kent Police, and Immigration Enforcement. He admitted visiting a layby on the A20 near Ashford.

Romanian national, aged 46. Initially denied knowledge of the people in his trailer but later changed his plea and admitted the charge. Three bundles of cash totalling £9,950 were found in the cab of his HGV.

25 Nov 2025

Disclaimer: The information on this page is compiled from publicly available court records and published media reports. It is provided strictly for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as a definitive record of any individual's criminal history or legal status.

Offence names marked with an asterisk (*) reflect descriptions used in media reporting and may not correspond to the formal legal charge or indictment. Sentencing details are as reported and may be subject to subsequent appeal, variation, or correction by the courts.

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Crown Court

Chaucer Road, Canterbury, Canterbury, Canterbury, CT1 1ZA, United Kingdom

+441227819200

www.find-court-tribunal.service.gov.uk

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About Canterbury Crown Court

Canterbury Crown Court, located in Canterbury, Canterbury, is a Crown Court that handles serious criminal cases including murder, rape, robbery, and other indictable offences. With 156 sentencing records in our database, it is one of the Crown Courts serving the Canterbury, Canterbury area. Crown Courts sit with a judge and jury, and have the power to impose the full range of sentences available under UK law.

The court can be found at Chaucer Road, Canterbury, CT1 1ZA.

For enquiries about cases heard at this court, you can contact the court by telephone on +441227819200 or visit the official court website for further information.

All sentencing information published on this page has been sourced from publicly-available records and verified by our editorial team. If you believe any information is inaccurate or should be removed, you can submit a removal request directly from the relevant listing above.

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Canterbury Crown Court Sentencing Results

Tyla Wanstall

Nicusor Lacatus

Richard Mumford

Mark Slade

James Henson

Mark Baker

James Gavin

Jordan Williams

Kasha Sanderson

Not Stated

Edward Watson

John King

Morgan Carter

Akindele Balogun

Anthony Allen

Christopher Bygraves

Tom Mcconnell

Matthew Thompson

Kevin Wernham

Renato Selmai

Clifford Airey

Gareth Harnett

Aaron Nugent

Duncan Bayles

David Jones

Christopher Crittenden

Fred Ketteringham

Jake Crittenden

Leo Westlake

Gavin Power

William Hobday

Dragos-Gabriel Geangalau

Krisian Salaj

Kevin Woods

James Finch

Leah Dane

David Derrick

Damien Derrick

Rebwar Hamad

Mohammed Nour Hgar

Sukhjeevan Singh

Luca Gentry-Prosper

Adheem Misson

Chase Price

Jon-Paul Clark

Rajesh Bakshi

Dawood Khan

Esmatullah Paktiawal

Marius Bajenaru

Sorin-Costinel Ivan

About Canterbury Crown Court

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Margate Magistrates Court

Folkestone Magistrates Court

Southend Magistrates Court

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Medway (Chatham) Magistrates Court

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