Maidstone Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 812 verdicts at Maidstone Crown Court (Maidstone). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

May 2026 3 cases

Danuska Pullia

Child cruelty *

Sentence

4 years imprisonment

Danuska Pullia, a 47-year-old teaching assistant of White Satin Close, Iwade, in Kent, hit, pinched and spat at vulnerable pupils at a school in Sittingbourne between September 2021 and July 2023. She spat at a child who had spat at her and pinched another child's nose to remove a chocolate bar from their mouth. She was reported by colleagues and investigated by Kent Police.

Pleaded not guilty to four counts of child cruelty but found guilty by jury following trial in November 2025.

8 May 2026

Tyler Luckhurst

Causing serious injury by dangerous driving *

Sentence

32 months imprisonment (20 months concurrent for second count), disqualified from driving for 30 months

On September 15, 2024, just before 8pm, Tyler Luckhurst, then 22, was driving his grandmother’s blue Mercedes C200 along Lower Road in Minster, Sheppey, while over the drug-driving limit with cocaine, ketamine and benzoylecgonine in his system. He overtook two cars at speed, attempted to pass a third at the brow of a hill, crashed into an oncoming vehicle driven by Johanne Bangs, then collided with another car driven by Lesley Hobman, causing his vehicle to flip. He was flung into bushes. Both women suffered serious injuries including broken bones, bruising and a punctured lung. Luckhurst fled the scene but later admitted responsibility at hospital.

Admitted two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving at Medway Magistrates’ Court. No previous convictions. Deemed of positive good character and genuinely remorseful. Judge noted his prior experience as a victim of dangerous driving. Will serve around 40% before release on licence. Must pass extended driving test.

7 May 2026

Jack Hunt

Being concerned in the supply of cocaine *

Sentence

27 months imprisonment

On August 2, 2025, during a night out in Sittingbourne, Jack Hunt, acting as a go-between for dealer Chris Maclean, arranged for scaffolder Jay Gerrett to buy cocaine outside Pembury Court flats. A dispute arose over the quantity or cost, leading to a confrontation between Hunt and Gerrett involving shouting about £100. Hunt had phoned Maclean and walked away after the argument escalated. Hunt was on the periphery of Maclean's supply operation.

Pleaded guilty in February to being concerned in the supply of a class A drug. Previous conviction for causing death by careless driving. Judge Julian Smith emphasised Hunt's role was limited to the supply and not the fatality, but he had cynically exploited an opportunity for reward. To serve 40% minus time on remand.

1 May 2026

April 2026 14 cases

Jay Bishenden

Breaching Sexual Harm Prevention Order *

Sentence

2 years and 3 months imprisonment

Jay Bishenden, 24, from Castle Rough Lane in Sittingbourne, was using unauthorised devices. Officers attended his address on November 13, 2025, with a warrant and found two mobile phones and a laptop with evidence of him using a private browser.

Admitted to all seven counts of breaching his Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and breaching a suspended sentence.

30 Apr 2026

Michael Merron

Rape *

Sentence

23 years’ imprisonment and an additional year to any licence period

Michael Merron, an 80-year-old former driving instructor from Halls Hole Road, Tunbridge Wells, abused four female victims over more than three decades starting in the mid-1980s. Victims included three children under 13 and a teenage driving pupil. Offences included rape, assault by penetration, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, sexual assault, and indecent assault. He targeted, groomed, and exploited them, with one rape victim urinated on and others forced to keep secrets. Despite a 2009 police report, he continued offending until another victim came forward. Investigation revealed depraved internet searches and a poem about a victim.

Convicted in February 2026 on 12 offences after denying all allegations and forcing victims to give evidence. Described by Judge Oliver Saxby KC as a despicable paedophile lacking remorse. Must serve at least two-thirds before parole eligibility. Indefinite sex offender notification requirements and sexual harm prevention order imposed.

30 Apr 2026

Darren Eastwood

Being concerned in the supply of class A drugs *

Sentence

four years in prison

Darren Eastwood from Sevenoaks operated a drugs line supplying cocaine, sending bulk messages to users including a 'Christmas deal' on December 24, 2025. The line pocket-dialled 112 on January 11, 2026. Police linked it to his personal phone and arrested him on January 16, 2026, in Hitchen Hatch Lane, Sevenoaks, finding cocaine wraps, cash, and phones. Searches of addresses including his home in Mount Harry Road yielded £79,500 cash, 150g cocaine, and drug preparation equipment.

Admitted being concerned in the supply of class A drugs, possession of class A drugs with intent to supply, and possession of criminal property. Pocket-dialled police on drugs line phone.

30 Apr 2026

Andrew Mcpherson

Breaching Sexual Harm Prevention Order *

Sentence

1 year imprisonment

Gillingham resident Andrew McPherson, 53, was visited by officers at his home in Charter Street on January 12 as part of a regular schedule of visits. They identified a laptop and phone showing signs of regular use, including internet usage. He was arrested and charged with breaching his SHPO.

Pleading guilty to three offences of breaching his Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

29 Apr 2026

Martin Airey

Burglary *

Sentence

5 years and 4 months imprisonment

Martin Airey committed burglaries including: April 2025 in Staplehurst, stealing jewellery worth £7,000 including irreplaceable rings from 85-year-old homeowner; August 6, 2026 in Albert Street, Maidstone, stealing £100 watches and causing £350 damage; September 19, 2026 in Little Buckland Avenue, Maidstone, caught rifling drawers, confronted by resident who took photo. DNA linked to scenes. Arrested shortly after last burglary.

Pleaded guilty. 28th conviction for 56 offences, 32 for burglaries. Offences committed while under police investigation. Prior 6-year sentence in 2017.

27 Apr 2026

Liam Sanders

Fraud by abuse of position *

Sentence

two-and-a-half years' imprisonment

Liam Sanders, former general manager of The Clipper pub in Dartford High Street, stole £102,862.45 from the business between 2017 and January 2019 by repeatedly failing to deposit all weekend and bank holiday takings at the bank, holding back one day's earnings on multiple occasions. Discrepancies were uncovered in the first four weeks of January 2019 from mismatched till receipts and bank logs.

Pleaded guilty in 2022 to one count of fraud for £9,734.84, which he repaid. Convicted by jury at retrial in March 2026 for fraud by abuse of position for the remaining £93,127.61. No previous convictions. Genuine remorse accepted by judge. Delays in case considered.

24 Apr 2026

Temesgen Desta

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm *

Sentence

12 months' imprisonment

On June 25, 2024, at HMP Swaleside on the Isle of Sheppey, Temesgen Desta refused to enter his cell while complaining about his food. He wielded an exposed electrical flex from a prison-issue travel kettle as a heating element, pushing it into the skin of two prison officers, causing burns to face, arm, ear and neck. One officer suffered a large nasty scar to his face. He was sprayed with Pava spray, then kicked and spat at officers.

Pleaded guilty to two offences of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Ordered to be served consecutively to his existing life sentence minimum term. Judge accepted culpability affected by psychotic state but noted lack of insight into premeditated and persistent assaults.

21 Apr 2026

Anthony Wickham

Voyeurism *

Sentence

6 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months

On June 10, 2023, at the Aldi store in Langley Park, Edmett Way, Maidstone, Anthony Wickham, a 67-year-old retired carpenter from Bearsted, strapped a mobile phone to his right foot with the camera facing upwards to record beneath women's skirts without their consent. He followed multiple women around the store, making unusual movements with his foot to capture upskirt footage. One victim confronted him after noticing the phone, but he refused to show it and left. CCTV confirmed his actions. Following a police appeal, former customers identified him. Upon arrest in July 2023, devices seized from his home revealed 140 images and videos of voyeurism, including footage of an unknown woman using a toilet (not recorded by him) and three deleted indecent images of children aged 7-14 depicting sexual acts. Internet searches showed interest in upskirt and spy camera content. The incident caused lasting distress to the victim and her son, affecting their sense of safety.

Ordered to complete a 26-day probation service-accredited programme and up to 30 rehabilitation activity requirement sessions. Subject to a sexual harm prevention order and sex offender notification requirements for 10 years. Ordered to pay £150 prosecution costs. Pleaded guilty at earliest opportunity. No previous convictions. Described as profoundly remorseful and undergoing therapy.

16 Apr 2026

Antonia Eastwood

Criminal damage *

Sentence

10-month jail term suspended for 12 months with 160 hours of unpaid work

On May 24, 2024, during Gemma Monk's wedding ceremony at Oakwood House Register Office in Maidstone, Antonia Eastwood threw black paint over her sister-in-law Gemma, splattering her wedding dress, face, eyes, and skin just moments before the ceremony was due to start. The attack was a revenge act stemming from an ongoing family feud, exacerbated by a false accusation that Gemma had tried to trip Eastwood at her own wedding in Dover in September 2023. The incident caused over £5,000 in damages and loss of revenue to the venue, which had to close for repairs. Eastwood fled the scene but was later interviewed by police, initially responding 'no comment'. She admitted the revenge motive in a pre-sentence report. The attack ruined the wedding, leading to Gemma suffering depression, inability to work, and loss of her £1,800 dress, which could not be cleaned.

Pleaded guilty to two offences of criminal damage. Judge Oliver Saxby KC followed sentencing guidelines, considering previous good character, realistic prospect of rehabilitation, delay in proceedings, and prison overcrowding. Also imposed a 10-year restraining order and ordered £5,000 compensation (£4,000 to victim and £1,000 to Oakwood House) at £100 per month.

15 Apr 2026

Jason Hartley

Rape of a child under 13 *

Sentence

16 and a half years in prison with a further year on licence

Jason Hartley, a 55-year-old Chatham resident, committed multiple rapes and assaults against a child between 2001 and 2007. A second young victim reported that he had exposed himself to them on at least two occasions. Kent Police launched an investigation in July 2022 after a report. He was arrested and charged with 15 sexual offences.

Admitted multiple offences including counts of rape, raping a child under 13 and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. A further five charges will lie on file. Indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) issued and required to sign onto the sex offenders’ register.

10 Apr 2026

Macauley Sanna

Conspiracy to pervert the course of justice *

Sentence

11 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months with 160 hours unpaid work, 20 rehabilitation sessions, 120 days alcohol abstinence monitoring

Macauley Sanna, 22, of Five Oak Green, Tonbridge, crashed ambulance head-on in Badsell Road, Paddock Wood early March 5, 2022 after drinking beer/spirits, fled scene leaving girlfriend, hid with family help to avoid alcohol testing.

Admitted conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.

8 Apr 2026

Michelle Sanna

Conspiracy to pervert the course of justice *

Sentence

15 months imprisonment

Michelle Sanna, 51, of Five Oak Green, Tonbridge, with children Macauley and Mollie, hid Macauley after head-on crash with ambulance in Badsell Road, Paddock Wood early March 5, 2022. Lied about contact, switched off phones to avoid detection and alcohol testing. Macauley fled scene after drinking.

Admitted conspiracy to pervert the course of justice. Leading role, influenced children. Fired from Kent Police for gross misconduct.

8 Apr 2026

Mollie Sanna

Conspiracy to pervert the course of justice *

Sentence

nine months imprisonment suspended for 18 months with 160 hours unpaid work

Mollie Sanna, 19, of Five Oak Green, Tonbridge, helped mother and brother hide Macauley after head-on crash with ambulance in Badsell Road, Paddock Wood early March 5, 2022, lying about contact to avoid detection.

Admitted conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.

8 Apr 2026

Sabinson Selimaj

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply *

Sentence

28 months imprisonment

On October 2, 2025, police raided a property in Scotts Way, Tunbridge Wells, after spotting a drug deal in Quarry Road. Sabinson Selimaj, a 28-year-old asylum seeker from Albania, was found locked in a room wrapping 171g of high-purity cocaine, possessing a fake Romanian driving licence, and £19,745 in cash. Body-worn footage showed him attempting to flush his phone down the toilet. He claimed he was offered accommodation in exchange for storing and wrapping the drugs and holding the money until collected by others.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply and possession of criminal property. Of previous good character, vulnerable asylum seeker whose application was rejected. Recorder Deanna Heer KC noted he had a limited function but made a poor choice by agreeing to be involved in drugs for accommodation.

8 Apr 2026

March 2026 30 cases

Isabel Nunes

Perverting the course of justice *

Sentence

20 months custody

Isabel Nunes, aged 34, from Berkley Close in Rochester, perverted the course of justice following a fatal crash on October 29, 2022, in City Way, Rochester, caused by her partner Isidoro Olim. After Olim called her 15 times post-crash, she arrived at the scene and falsely told police she was the driver of the BMW, providing a detailed account of her supposed driving, allowing herself to be arrested, and complying with breath test and sobriety checks. She feigned injury while in custody to make her account more credible and deleted the call history from her phone before handing it over for examination. She was charged in October 2024 and pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity.

Pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice at the earliest opportunity. Of previous good character and works as a care home worker, playing a vital role as a carer.

30 Mar 2026

Isidoro Olim

Causing death by dangerous driving *

Sentence

17 years and two months imprisonment

On October 29, 2022, Isidoro Olim, aged 35, from Berkley Close in Rochester, was driving his blue BMW 118D at 77mph in a 30mph zone along City Way, Rochester, after consuming four pints of alcohol, including one just six minutes prior. He ploughed into the rear offside of a Skoda Fabia carrying Andrew Cass, Neil Harris, Sue Smith, and Lawrence Smith at around 11.45pm, with an impact speed of 65mph. Mr Cass and Mr Harris, who were not wearing seatbelts, died from blunt force trauma to the head and torso; Mr Cass was ejected from the vehicle. The Smiths suffered serious injuries. Olim had drunk at a bar in Rochester and his blood alcohol level five hours later was below the legal limit, but the prosecution argued he may have been over the limit at the time. He initially lied to police, claiming his wife was driving, refused a breathalyser, and called her 15 times to come to the scene. He was charged in October 2024 and pleaded guilty before trial earlier in March 2026.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and perverting the course of justice. Of previous good character with no record of bad driving. Driving disqualification for 10 years.

30 Mar 2026

Martin Creed

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm *

Sentence

2 years and 2 months imprisonment

Martin Creed, aged 33, of Musgrave Road, Sittingbourne, isolated his partner of eight years and their three children (aged six, four, and one) from her family for over three years at a caravan in Shurland Dale Holiday Park, Eastchurch, on the Isle of Sheppey. On May 11, 2025, after she informed him of plans to meet her mother, he subjected her to a torrent of abuse, threatening to kill her and burn down the caravan and her family's home. He dragged her by the hair across the living room, tearing out chunks of hair and leaving bald patches, slapped her, and assaulted her in the garden while the children screamed inside. Fearing for her life and her children's safety, she fled barefoot nearly three miles to her brother's house in Minster around 6am on May 12, 2025. Police arrested Creed, but he breached bail by accessing her social media and visiting her address within 72 hours, leading to his remand in custody. He spent approximately 10 months on remand prior to sentencing.

Pleaded guilty on the day of trial to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, threatening to kill with children present, and stalking involving serious alarm or distress. Charges of intentional strangulation and engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour laid on file. Subject to indefinite restraining order banning contact with victim and her family; contact with children only after they turn 18. Judge commented on the dreadful and cruel assault in presence of children and fundamental disrespect for women.

27 Mar 2026

Mario Pascoal

Affray *

Sentence

two years and nine months in prison

On December 27 at 8.43pm, Mario Pascoal, 35, of Cranbrook Road in Thornton Heath, London, chased a person with a knife through Maidstone High Street. He was identified via CCTV, pursued by police and a member of the public, and arrested near Maidstone Crown Court after throwing a duffel bag containing class A and class B drugs, two mobile phones, cash, and a leather weapon holder into the River Medway. Phone messages confirmed drug supply activities. The arrest occurred four minutes after the initial 999 call.

Admitted supplying class A drugs, affray, possession of an offensive weapon and possession with intent to supply class B drugs. Investigating officer praised the quick arrest and public assistance.

26 Mar 2026

Cora Upple

Breaches of restraining order and suspended sentence order *

Sentence

81 weeks imprisonment

Cora Upple, 22, from Rainham, breached a five-year restraining order imposed in 2023 for persistent harassment of EastEnders actress Ellie Dadd, who plays Amy Mitchell. In 2024, Upple bombarded Dadd with hundreds of messages, leading to a nine-month suspended sentence for 15 months imposed by magistrates. On May 10, 2025, Upple sent a follow request to Dadd's mother, Nicola Gibberd, via Instagram, and on June 9, 2025, followed her account, breaching the extended restraining order. Initially denying wrongdoing and claiming accident or impulse to apologise, Upple pleaded guilty at Southwark Crown Court in January 2026. The actions caused serious harm and distress to Dadd personally and professionally, and impacted her family. Upple has previous convictions and a history of disobeying court orders, assessed as high risk of reoffending and causing serious harm.

Pleaded guilty to two breaches of a restraining order and breach of a suspended sentence order. Judge Lee Harris warned her to cease contact with Ellie Dadd or face more prison time. Existing restraining order extended to March 2031. Mental health conditions and family support taken into account, but remorse questioned due to history of reoffending.

26 Mar 2026

Owen Maughan

Manslaughter *

Sentence

12 years and 8 months imprisonment

Owen Maughan, 27, drove a Ford Ranger Wildtrak while intoxicated after consuming alcohol over six hours. He engaged in a high-speed chase along the A2, pulling onto the wrong side of New Barn Road in Southfleet and ramming Lovell Mahon's vehicle at 60mph just before 9.30pm on June 1, 2025. The collision caused the victims' truck to spin and roll multiple times, ejecting four-year-old Peter Maughan and Lovell Mahon. Owen then fled the scene, abandoned the damaged vehicle in Hextable after removing the registration plate, and was arrested on June 2, 2025, after handing himself in.

Pleaded guilty to manslaughter and causing grievous bodily harm. Reduction from 19 years due to guilty plea credit. Must serve two-thirds before release. Expressed remorse in court.

26 Mar 2026

Patrick Maughan

Manslaughter *

Sentence

18 years imprisonment

Patrick Maughan, 54, was the front-seat passenger in his son Owen's Ford Ranger Wildtrak during a drink-fuelled pursuit. Intoxicated after consuming alcohol, he aggressively encouraged the high-speed chase along the A2, leading to the ramming of Lovell Mahon's vehicle at 60mph on the wrong side of New Barn Road in Southfleet just before 9.30pm on June 1, 2025. The impact killed four-year-old Peter Maughan and caused life-changing injuries to Lovell Mahon. Patrick fled the scene, was found intoxicated at his sister's home, and arrested on June 3, 2025. He refused to provide his phone PIN to police.

Convicted of manslaughter and inflicting grievous bodily harm after encouraging his son to ram the vehicle. Must serve two-thirds before release. Made mocking comment about victim's disability during sentencing. History of alcoholism and prior conviction for dangerous driving.

26 Mar 2026

Thomas Bull

Coercive and controlling behaviour *

Sentence

5 years and 3 months imprisonment

Thomas Bull, 32, from Gillingham, began a relationship with the victim in early 2024, initially using dates and gifts. He then engaged in obsessive behaviour, digital harassment, isolation from friends, regular physical assaults including choking her so she needed hospital treatment, forced entry into her home, urinating on her clothing and furniture, and stealing two watches. Arrested on December 30, 2024.

Pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation, common assault, and two counts of coercive and controlling behaviour. Total includes time for separate incident and breach of suspended sentence.

26 Mar 2026

Michael Pollock

Robbery *

Sentence

6 years and 2 months imprisonment with 4-year extended licence

On October 12, 2026, Michael Pollock, under the influence of alcohol and cocaine, entered the BP petrol station in London Road, Bapchild, near Sittingbourne, at around 9.30pm. He had previously called the shop to inquire about closing time and the cash machine. Recognized by staff as a local resident, he brandished a fake handgun (sprayed to look real) at employee Thiyagarajan Shanmugam while stocking shelves, threatening to shoot him unless the cash machine was opened. When refused, he turned to Karthrick Thriupathi, threatening to kill him and his family while pointing the gun. Pollock grabbed £50-£100 from the drawer and a bottle of Bell's Whisky but dropped the bottle. Thriupathi snatched and discarded the fake gun as Pollock fled. Staff pursued him to his nearby home, leading to his arrest within an hour. Officers found him in the same clothes and a machete (no charges). The incident caused significant fear to the workers, one fearing for his children's future.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and one count of robbery. Serial offender with 18 previous convictions for 35 offences. Judge noted escalating seriousness of offending, history of substance misuse, and that the offence was planned to cause fear. Mitigation included robbing to pay for father's medication and desire to turn life around.

25 Mar 2026

Amie Bray

Arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered *

Sentence

40 months' custody

Amie Bray deliberately set fire to her home on Copenhagen Road, Gillingham, at approximately 11:00 p.m. on May 5, 2025, endangering neighbouring residents. During the police response, she became combative, kicking one officer while being detained and slapping a second officer while being placed into a holding cell.

Pleaded guilty to arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered and two counts of assaulting an emergency worker. Sentenced to 28 months for arson, two months concurrent for assaults, plus 12 months for breaching a previous suspended sentence order.

20 Mar 2026

Dorin Ciorba

Murder *

Sentence

32 years imprisonment

Dorin Ciorba, a 29-year-old handyman from Barking, east London, murdered his customer Osaretin Oronsaye, 62, in his Dartford home on 5 July using scissors and cable ties during a dispute over money related to a county court claim for unpaid maintenance work. Ciorba stole Oronsaye's bank cards, car keys, and other items, later using the cards and searching online for murder reports while police initially treated the death as a suicide. The victim's wife discovered the body later that day. Police found evidence including the legal paperwork, cable ties, and stolen items during a search of Ciorba's home on the day of his arrest.

Found guilty of murder and robbery. Concurrent 13-year sentence for robbery. Will be deported on conclusion of sentence. Justice Dias commented on the impact of the murder on the victim's family.

19 Mar 2026

Lauren Kinrade

Perverting the course of justice *

Sentence

4 years imprisonment

Lauren Kinrade from Sittingbourne made 20 false reports to police over a six-month period between August 2023 and February 2024, claiming her former partner John Andrews had sent her malicious and threatening emails, including threats to rape and kill. She set up an email address in his name while acting as his carer in August 2022, and after their romantic relationship ended in November 2022, she sought a non-molestation order in June 2023 by sending five fake emails posing as Mr Andrews. She made 13 calls to police and seven witness statements, leading to Mr Andrews being charged and remanded in custody for over three months at HMP Elmley. The false emails were traced to her home IP address and recovery phone number. She also conducted internet searches on tracking IP addresses from emails. Her actions worsened Mr Andrews' health, including his bladder cancer and Parkinson’s disease, causing significant distress, financial loss, and reputational damage.

Pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice. Judge Gareth Branston described the offending as sophisticated, premeditated, and relentless. Will serve no more than half in custody before licence conditions. 10-year restraining order imposed, £1,000 court costs, and surcharge.

17 Mar 2026

Klein Taylor

Conspiracy to supply cocaine *

Sentence

3 years and 4 months imprisonment

Klein Taylor, 29, of Sussex Street, Ramsgate, participated in the organized supply and distribution of 24kg of cocaine, 10kg of ketamine, and 5,000 ecstasy tablets by the Thanet gang between August 2024 and January 2025.

Admitted conspiracy to supply cocaine.

16 Mar 2026

Mitchell Laing

Conspiracy to supply cocaine *

Sentence

2 years and 9 months imprisonment

Mitchell Laing, 28, of Lime Trees, Minster, Thanet, was a member of the drug gang that supplied class A drugs including 24kg of cocaine across east Kent from August 2024 to January 2025, targeting vulnerable users.

Admitted conspiracy to supply cocaine.

16 Mar 2026

Massimo Fierro

Conspiracy to supply cocaine *

Sentence

2 years and 8 months imprisonment

Massimo Fierro, 28, of Shottendane Road, Birchington, was charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine and ketamine as part of the east Kent drug operation involving 24kg of cocaine and 10kg of ketamine distributed between August 2024 and January 2025.

Admitted conspiracy to supply cocaine and ketamine.

16 Mar 2026

Harry Hathaway

Conspiracy to supply cocaine *

Sentence

5 years and 3 months imprisonment

Harry Hathaway, 32, of Kingsgate Avenue, Broadstairs, was involved in the Thanet drug gang that distributed over £800,000 worth of class A and B drugs, including 24kg of cocaine, across east Kent from August 2024 to January 2025.

Admitted conspiracy to supply cocaine.

16 Mar 2026

Reece Stovell

Conspiracy to supply cocaine *

Sentence

6 years imprisonment

Reece Stovell, 29, of St Benet’s Road, Westgate-on-Sea, was part of the group led by Bertie Payne that supplied 24kg of cocaine, 10kg of ketamine, and 5,000 ecstasy tablets across east Kent between August 2024 and January 2025.

Admitted conspiracy to supply cocaine.

16 Mar 2026

David Fowkes

Inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent *

Sentence

one year and 10 months’ imprisonment

On June 16, 2026, at around 7.40pm, David Fowkes, driving a Vauxhall Corsa, approached a pedestrian walking along Bayham Road, Tunbridge Wells, after a round of golf. With no pavement, the pedestrian was on the right-hand side. Fowkes left insufficient space, leading to the pedestrian expressing dissatisfaction. An argument escalated, Fowkes exited his vehicle and punched the man once, knocking him backwards to hit his head on the floor, causing serious injuries requiring hospital treatment in London.

Pleaded guilty. Made subject of a 10-year restraining order not to contact the victim. Investigating officer noted the reaction was disproportionate and nearly cost the victim his life.

13 Mar 2026

Bertie Payne

Conspiracy to supply cocaine, ecstasy, and ketamine *

Sentence

15 years imprisonment

Bertie Payne coordinated the supply of class A drugs across east Kent, using a luxury watch business as a cover to launder money. He led a group supplying 24kg of cocaine, 10kg of ketamine, and 5,000 ecstasy tablets between August 2024 and January 2025. He was arrested on 24 January 2025 in Bluewater car park with £50,000 cash.

Admitted charges of conspiracy to supply cocaine, ecstasy, and ketamine, and money laundering.

12 Mar 2026

Halim Lashi

Money laundering *

Sentence

2 years imprisonment suspended

Halim Lashi, 31, of Lynwood Gardens, Croydon, was arrested with Bertie Payne on 24 January 2025 in Bluewater car park while handling £50,000 in cash. He was involved in money laundering for the drug gang supplying class A drugs across east Kent.

Denied money laundering charge but found guilty at trial in October 2025.

12 Mar 2026

Karen Gordon

Conspiracy to supply cocaine *

Sentence

4 years and 3 months imprisonment

Karen Gordon, 52, of Ellington Road, Ramsgate, allowed her home to be used for storing drugs as part of the Thanet drug gang led by Bertie Payne. The gang supplied 24kg of cocaine, 10kg of ketamine, and 5,000 ecstasy tablets across east Kent from August 2024 to January 2025.

Her home address was used to store drugs. Sentenced as part of the group involved in the operation.

12 Mar 2026

Mark Caprile

Causing death by dangerous driving *

Sentence

5 years and 8 months imprisonment

Mark Caprile, a visually impaired driver from Holden Park Road, Tunbridge Wells, struck and killed 76-year-old pensioner Nigel Knight with his white Volkswagen Transporter van while driving at around 24mph in a 20mph zone on Culverden Down near the entrance to Tunbridge Wells FC's ground in 2023. Mr Knight was crossing the road after watching a match with his son Paul Knight when the collision occurred, causing him to fall backwards and strike his head on the pavement. He was rushed to hospital and died four days later. The crash could have been avoided if Caprile had braked one metre earlier. He had not had an eye test for 10 years and failed to meet the legal vision requirements for driving (acuity of 0.5 in at least one eye). Officers noted he should have seen the pedestrians from 40 metres away.

Pleaded not guilty initially but changed plea before giving evidence. Disqualified from driving for 5 years upon release. Vision did not meet legal driving standards due to dense cataract in one eye and poor acuity in the other. Positive for methadone and THC acid in blood. No alcohol detected.

12 Mar 2026

Peter Nicholls

Conspiracy to supply cocaine, ecstasy, and ketamine *

Sentence

8 years imprisonment

Peter Nicholls, 51, of Ellington Road, Ramsgate, assisted Bertie Payne in supplying and distributing class A and B drugs across east Kent. He used the home address of Karen Gordon to store drugs and was involved in moving illicit money, including cryptocurrency. Over 2,100 text messages linked him to the operation.

Admitted charges of conspiracy to supply cocaine, ecstasy, and ketamine, and money laundering. Identified as Payne's right-hand man.

12 Mar 2026

Ryan Page

Failing to comply with sex offender notification requirements *

Sentence

one year in jail

Ryan Page, a registered sex offender, created fake social media accounts under the names 'Jim White' and 'Ryan Wenham' on Snapchat, and 'Ryan Chantilly' on Facebook in 2023, breaching his court-imposed internet restrictions following his 2008 conviction for rape. He was arrested in November 2024 at The Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone, charged with four counts of failing to comply with sex offender notification requirements, denied the charges, failed to appear for trial in October 2025, was convicted in absentia, arrested in Somerset on March 9, 2026, and sentenced the next day.

Found guilty in his absence after failing to appear for trial. Breached sex offender notification requirements by using fake social media accounts.

10 Mar 2026

Ahmed Boshmakov

Causing serious injury by careless driving *

Sentence

8 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months

On November 2, 2023, Ahmed Boshmakov was driving a Mercedes C220 at night on a wet surface in Longfield Road, Tunbridge Wells, potentially at double the 30mph speed limit. He collided with a BMW emerging from a junction, causing his vehicle to spin and hit a parked van. The crash broke his pregnant partner Nora Chakarova's back (two broken vertebrae in her lower spine), broke her waters, and led to their baby being born extremely prematurely on November 19, 2023, with enduring medical conditions including a shortened lifespan. Witnesses estimated his speed at 60mph. Although the BMW driver contributed, the prosecution stated the collision would not have occurred if Boshmakov had driven sensibly and within the limit.

Pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by careless driving. Previous conviction for drink-driving in 2018. Ordered to complete up to 20 rehabilitation activity requirements, 12-month driving ban, pay £500 towards prosecution costs and £187 victim surcharge. Judge noted the defendant is already being punished in more tragic ways by the consequences on his family.

10 Mar 2026

Kevin Lawler

Arranging the commission of a child sexual offence *

Sentence

4 years imprisonment

In June 2025, Lawler engaged with two child profiles online, aged 13 and 14, respectively. Despite it being clear that the accounts were children, Lawler continued to message and went on to describe several sexual acts he wished to engage in. One of these he arranged to meet for sexual activity at a leisure centre in Walton-on-Thames. However, the profile he was speaking to was an undercover officer deployed to seek out those who incite children into sexual activity, and he was arrested.

Found guilty of arranging the commission of a child sexual offence, namely causing a child to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity, attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, attempting to meet a child, and three counts of making indecent photographs of children. Also given a seven-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

9 Mar 2026

Ionut Calin

Robbery *

Sentence

2 years and 3 months imprisonment

Ionut Calin, along with Dobre Vasile-Iosif and Valentin Ciuraru, entered a store in Sittingbourne High Street on October 17, 2024, threatened staff, and demanded they open the secure safe. The group stole more than £50,000 worth of mobile phones and other electrical devices before fleeing. Staff tracked one of the stolen phones to Gillingham Park, leading to the arrest of the men emerging from bushes with the bags of phones.

Admitted the offence at an earlier court hearing.

9 Mar 2026

Derek Rowley

Rape *

Sentence

17 years imprisonment

Derek Rowley, aged 46, met the victim on Grindr in May 2024. The victim visited Rowley's home in Gillingham for consensual sex and drugs including GHB, crystal meth, and ketamine. Around 5.10pm, the victim became completely limp and unresponsive. Rowley administered further drugs, raped the victim repeatedly over one hour and 20 minutes while livestreaming the acts, and gave a thumbs up to viewers. The victim died at around 7.30pm from mixed drugs toxicity.

Found guilty of 11 counts of rape and one count of administering a substance with intent following a trial in November 2025. Judge Robert Lazarus commented on Rowley's complete disregard for the victim's wellbeing and lack of humanity in not calling an ambulance.

5 Mar 2026

Dawn Simon

Dangerous driving and causing criminal damage *

Sentence

1 year and 3 months in prison

On March 15, 2023, Dawn Simon was interrupted by police while meeting convicted drug dealer Graham Marriott in the car park of Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre in Gillingham to allegedly pay the final £50 instalment for a £4,000 Rolex watch. She fled the scene in her white Mercedes-Benz, smashing into a police car during a chase, before abandoning the vehicle and hiding in bushes near Quaife Engineering on the Gillingham Industrial Estate. She was arrested wearing red slippers, pyjamas, a long black coat, and a Rolex watch. Police found £900 hidden in her buttocks, £300 in her handbag, and upon searching her home, discovered £7,500 in cash, designer clothing, perfumes, sunglasses, handbags, and cutting agents for cocaine. DNA matching Simon's was found on drug wraps discarded by Marriott. She claimed she thought the officers were robbers and did not see or hear the police lights or sirens.

Banned from driving for 18 months and must pass an extended retest. Walked free from court as she had been on a tag and closely monitored since arrest in March 2023. Sentenced by Judge Nicola Makanjuloa.

2 Mar 2026

Kirstian Botev

Possession with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs *

Sentence

2.5 years imprisonment

On September 15, 2025, officers from the Neighbourhood Task Force stopped a vehicle in the Broadmead area of Tunbridge Wells after noticing suspicious behaviour by the driver. Upon searching the vehicle, they found a black sock containing several small bags of cocaine and cannabis in the glove box. Further enquiries revealed Botev's nearby residence at Tudor Court, where a follow-up search uncovered approximately £10,000 worth of cocaine in the kitchen, £5,000 in cash, and £2,000 worth of cannabis, all seized by police.

Pleaded guilty to all charges. Sergeant Edward Kavanagh commented on the detrimental impact of such criminals on the community.

2 Mar 2026

February 2026 3 cases

Connor Graham

Production of MDMA and supply of Class A and B drugs *

Sentence

9 years and 3 months imprisonment

Connor Graham, 27, of Church Road, Eastchurch, produced and supplied ecstasy (MDMA), ketamine, and amphetamine at his home near three prisons on Sheppey alongside his brother. Was already serving a prison sentence for similar offences when involved. Mobile phone messages confirmed large-scale production and supply. Rearrested December 14, 2025, with industrial equipment, 2 kilos of MDMA, 5,000 ecstasy pills, cocaine, and cash at the shared home.

Admitted charges of production of MDMA, being concerned in the supply of ketamine and amphetamine, and possession of criminal property. Breached suspended sentence order which was activated and incorporated into sentence. Played a bigger part in the offending.

26 Feb 2026

Bryn Graham

Production of MDMA and supply of Class A and B drugs *

Sentence

7 years imprisonment

Bryn Graham, 23, of Church Road, Eastchurch, produced and supplied ecstasy (MDMA), ketamine, amphetamine, and possessed cocaine at his home near three prisons on Sheppey. Operation discovered on October 4, 2024, when he was arrested in Maidstone inhaling nitrous oxide and found with drugs and cash. Home search revealed cash, drugs, and pill-making machinery. Rearrested December 14, 2025, with more equipment, 2 kilos of MDMA, 5,000 ecstasy pills, cocaine, and cash.

Admitted charges of production of MDMA, being concerned in the supply of ketamine and amphetamine, and possession of cocaine. Breached suspended sentence order which was activated and incorporated into sentence. Possession of criminal property charge remained on file.

26 Feb 2026

Chris Maclean

Manslaughter *

Sentence

16 years imprisonment

On August 2, 2026, at around 9.10pm, Chris Maclean, 43, joined an altercation on Pembury Street in Sittingbourne after being called by Jack Hunt. Maclean goaded Jay Gerrett into fighting, brandished a large machete, and swung it wildly at Gerrett's body and face. Gerrett fled, pursued by Maclean, and fell into oncoming traffic on St Michael’s Road where he was hit by a car and died immediately. Maclean was arrested on August 5 in Canterbury, initially denying involvement, and found in possession of cocaine.

Admitted to manslaughter and possession of cocaine with intent to supply. Deemed a dangerous offender.

26 Feb 2026

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

Barker Road, Maidstone, Maidstone, ME16 8EQ, United Kingdom

+441622202000

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

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About Maidstone Crown Court

Maidstone Crown Court, located in Maidstone, is a Crown Court that handles serious criminal cases including murder, rape, robbery, and other indictable offences. With 812 sentencing records in our database, it is one of the Crown Courts serving the Maidstone 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 Barker Road, Maidstone, ME16 8EQ.

For enquiries about cases heard at this court, you can contact the court by telephone on +441622202000 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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Maidstone Crown Court Sentencing Results

Danuska Pullia

Tyler Luckhurst

Jack Hunt

Jay Bishenden

Michael Merron

Darren Eastwood

Andrew Mcpherson

Martin Airey

Liam Sanders

Temesgen Desta

Anthony Wickham

Antonia Eastwood

Jason Hartley

Macauley Sanna

Michelle Sanna

Mollie Sanna

Sabinson Selimaj

Isabel Nunes

Isidoro Olim

Martin Creed

Mario Pascoal

Cora Upple

Owen Maughan

Patrick Maughan

Thomas Bull

Michael Pollock

Amie Bray

Dorin Ciorba

Lauren Kinrade

Klein Taylor

Mitchell Laing

Massimo Fierro

Harry Hathaway

Reece Stovell

David Fowkes

Bertie Payne

Halim Lashi

Karen Gordon

Mark Caprile

Peter Nicholls

Ryan Page

Ahmed Boshmakov

Kevin Lawler

Ionut Calin

Derek Rowley

Dawn Simon

Kirstian Botev

Connor Graham

Bryn Graham

Chris Maclean

About Maidstone Crown Court

Nearby Courts

Maidstone Magistrates Court

Medway (Chatham) Magistrates Court

Sevenoaks Magistrates Court

Bexley Magistrates Court

Southend Magistrates Court

Basildon Magistrates Court

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