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Maidstone Crown Court Sentencing Results

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

February 2026 12 cases
Archie Pattullo
Robbery *
Sentence
three years and nine months in jail
On June 30 at 10.30pm, Archie Pattullo entered a convenience store in High Brooms, near Tunbridge Wells, wearing a face covering. He cornered a member of staff behind the till while brandishing a knife, demanded money, and fled with approximately £1,800 in cash. He was identified via CCTV by his distinctive hand tattoo, fled his home in Chestnut Close, and was arrested in Brighton on July 4. Seized clothing matched the robbery attire, and his mobile phone showed messages bragging about the cash from 'a job'.
Pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of a bladed article. Investigating officer noted the extreme distress caused to the victim.
Shafiullah Rasooli
Sexual Assault *
Sentence
2.5 years imprisonment and Sexual Harm Prevention Order
Shafiullah Rasooli, a 29-year-old delivery driver from Maidstone, sexually assaulted two vulnerable women in their homes during food deliveries. On June 26, 2025, he delivered to the first woman, made inappropriate remarks, entered her home, and assaulted her. On July 3, 2025, he delivered to the second woman, made indecent comments about her relationship status, and assaulted her. The women reported the incidents, leading to a police investigation involving CCTV review and order details, which identified Rasooli.
Denied the offences and was convicted following a trial. Afghan national seeking asylum.
Aaron Nugent
Non-fatal strangulation *
Sentence
4 years imprisonment
Aaron Nugent, 45, from Breeze Meadow, Faversham, subjected his victim to physical and mental abuse over a five-month period. He assaulted her on multiple occasions, controlled her movements and communications, followed her unannounced, threw a brick through her home window and climbed in when refused entry, and during a two-hour drunken ordeal repeatedly punched and slapped her, grabbed her by the neck causing bruising, and threatened to kill her.
Pleaded guilty to non-fatal strangulation, controlling and coercive behaviour, actual bodily harm, assault by beating, threats to kill and criminal damage.
Levi Silcott
Causing grievous bodily harm with intent *
Sentence
6 years imprisonment
Levi Silcott randomly attacked a woman walking along Seaview Road in Gillingham on April 23, 2025, dragging her along the ground into an alleyway and punching her repeatedly in the face. The victim, who had never met Silcott, suffered facial fractures and has undergone medical and reconstructive surgery. Investigators identified him through CCTV footage of a man exiting a car matching the offender's clothing, tracked the car's movements, and arrested him on May 21, 2025, in Ilford.
Denied the offence and was convicted following a trial. Investigating officer described the actions as unprovoked and horrific.
Malcom Nix
Breach of sexual harm prevention order *
Sentence
13 months imprisonment
Malcom Nix, a 66-year-old registered sex offender from Trafalgar Street, Gillingham, was found guilty in 2015 of sexual offences involving children and subjected to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) restricting his internet use, requiring devices to retain and display browsing history. On September 9, 2025, during a regular police visit, he refused entry and provided his mobile phone, which officers found to be using private browsing mode in breach of the order. He was charged the next day and remanded in custody.
Pleaded guilty to breaching sexual harm prevention order. Will continue to be subject to an indefinite SHPO. Investigating officer noted he remains a danger to children.
Lee Webster
Attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child *
Sentence
7 years imprisonment with 5 years on licence
Lee Webster, aged 39 from Maidstone, reoffended just six weeks after release from prison by using a false name and claiming to be 28 to send explicit messages and images to someone he believed was a 12-year-old girl. He also attempted to arrange a meeting for sexual activity. Webster was arrested at his home in Fairmeadow and charged with attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual activity, attempting to facilitate a child sex offence, breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, and failing to comply with sex offenders’ register requirements. He attempted to conceal evidence by deleting social media apps from his phone.
Prolific offender with prior convictions including manslaughter, perverting the course of justice, and sexual offences. Described as manipulative by police. Pleaded not guilty but convicted after trial.
Michael Tucker
Attempting to cause grievous bodily harm *
Sentence
37 months imprisonment
Michael Tucker, aged 59, of Fort Pitt Street in Chatham, had a grudge against the victim following a previous incident. On August 19, 2025, he brandished a knife upon seeing the victim at a store in Ordnance Street, Chatham. The victim successfully defended himself but suffered a laceration to his hand during the confrontation.
Admitted to all three charges. A restraining order was also imposed for five years.
Andrew Hamilton
Supply of a controlled drug *
Sentence
4 years imprisonment
Andrew Hamilton, 50, of Voisin Close, Hoo, held a significant role as a drug runner in Frank Harris's reactivated cocaine network. Arrested on January 11, 2025, in New Cut, Chatham, during a drug deal; officers seized cocaine valued at £2,840 and £640 cash. While on bail, on April 11, 2025, a warrant at his home led to his attempted flight with deal bags, gloves, phone, pepper spray, and ammunition; search found cocaine valued at £480-£640.
Pleaded guilty to drug offences, possession of a weapon for the discharge of noxious liquid, and possessing ammunition for a firearm without a certificate. Continued to offend while on bail awaiting sentence.
Frank Harris
Being concerned in the supply of a controlled drug *
Sentence
9 years imprisonment
Frank Harris, 33, of Rainham, operated a lucrative cocaine distribution network across Medway towns. Initially arrested on December 22, 2023, in Gillingham after a vehicle stop revealed a phone linked to a drug line and £1,635 cash; further search of his home found £2,310 cash. While awaiting trial, he reactivated the line in 2024 using sophisticated evasion tactics and recruited runners. On April 14, 2025, arrested at his Cherry Orchard Drive home where empty packaging for two 1kg blocks of cocaine and £25,000 cash were seized.
Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of a controlled drug and possessing criminal property. Subject to a five year Serious Crime Prevention Order on release. Prior investigation in 2023, reactivated drug line in 2024 while awaiting trial.
Chelsea O’Neill
Burglary *
Sentence
1 year imprisonment suspended for 18 months
Stevie White and Chelsea O’Neill targeted four separate homes on June 12, 2025, in Edenbridge (three homes) and Harts Lane, Godstone (one home). They used a rented red Vauxhall Corsa with a distinctive black roof, gaining entry by smashing back doors or forcing windows in broad daylight while homeowners were away. They ransacked the properties and stole high-end jewellery, watches, commemorative coins, designer sunglasses, and bank cards. Caught less than 24 hours later on June 13 when police intercepted the car in Dartford; stolen items, pawn broker invoices, and £1,000 cash found in vehicle, more stolen property at O’Neill’s home in Chislehurst. Identified via witnesses, CCTV, and cell site data from mobile phones.
Pleaded guilty to four counts of burglary.
Chelsea O'neill
Burglary *
Sentence
12 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months
Chelsea O'Neill, 42, of Bushell Way in Chislehurst, and her partner Stevie White used a rented red Vauxhall Corsa with a black roof to target three empty homes in the Edenbridge area of Kent and a fourth home in Harts Lane, Godstone, Surrey, on June 12, 2025. They gained entry by smashing back doors or forcing windows open, ransacking the properties and stealing jewellery, watches, commemorative coins, sunglasses, and bank cards. CCTV showed White lingering outside two properties, and cell site data placed both at the scenes. The vehicle was stopped in Dartford the next day, leading to their arrest. Stolen items were found at O'Neill's property.
Pleaded guilty to four counts of burglary.
Andrew Clark
Rape *
Sentence
13 years imprisonment
Andrew Clark, 62, from Gillingham, raped a child, leading to his arrest on June 18, 2023, after the victim disclosed the abuse to police. He was charged with six offences including rape, attempted rape, three counts of sexual assault, and possession of indecent images. Following a trial in November 2025, a jury found him guilty on all counts.
Denied all allegations, leading to a trial in November 2025 where he was found guilty. A Sexual Harm Prevention Order was imposed, banning unsupervised contact with children and restricting internet and electronic device use indefinitely. Investigating officer commended the victim for coming forward.
January 2026 24 cases
Lewis Taylor
Intentional strangulation *
Sentence
6 years imprisonment
Lewis Taylor, 36, from Little Chequers in Wye, subjected a woman to sustained abuse including multiple assaults. The first incident in June 2025 involved accusing her of cheating, strangling her, and pushing her to the floor. In another incident, he went to her workplace, grabbed her by the shirt collar, and spat in her face. On another occasion, he gave her two black eyes. The final incident on July 27, 2025, at her home in Leysdown on Sheppey involved letting himself in, repeatedly hitting her head against a toilet, floors, walls and other objects, punching her several times, dragging her downstairs into the courtyard, urinating on her, and smashing her phone. She escaped to neighbours who called police. Taylor fled but was arrested in Sidcup later that evening.
Denied the offences but was convicted by a jury. Also given a 15 year restraining order. Investigating officer noted no remorse shown.
Rajeep Mary-Patrick
Fraud *
Sentence
24 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years with 120 hours unpaid work
Rajeep Mary-Patrick, operating through his company Anushiya Ltd at the Esso petrol station in Boxley Road, Maidstone, made 191 false declarations of finances from fuel, coffee, and valet services sales between April 2019 and January 2020. He fraudulently over-declared sales due to an IT upgrade backlog, pocketing £68,913 in additional cash, with the largest single over-declaration being just under £1,000. Discrepancies were noticed in early 2020, and deposits into his personal account matched the overpayments. He breached trust as a contractor for Motor Fuel Group, under pressure from rising costs, but the judge found he personally benefited.
Pleaded guilty to fraud and false accounting. No previous convictions. Genuine remorse shown. Realistic prospect of rehabilitation. Judge considered impact on family. Faces future confiscation proceedings.
Zygimantas Dranseika
Arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered *
Sentence
3 years imprisonment
On August 26, 2025, at approximately 5am, Zygimantas Dranseika deliberately started a fire outside Get Ready Comics at 119 High Street, Rochester, causing significant damage to the shopfront, door frame, and sign. The fire was lit purposefully and spread, but was extinguished by Kent Fire and Rescue Service before reaching homes above. Dranseika watched the fire take hold before leaving, as captured on CCTV. He was arrested on August 29, 2025, and charged with arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered. No injuries occurred, but the shop closed temporarily for repairs, with community raising nearly £3,000 via GoFundMe.
Pleaded guilty. Sentence includes activation of breached suspended sentence from two months prior for a similar crime. Described as having an unhealthy obsession with fire.
Lee Wooding
Child sex offences *
Sentence
9 years imprisonment
Lee Wooding, aged 65, from McAlpine Crescent, Maidstone, abused children over a period dating back 20 years. His offences included filming himself licking ice cream off children's stomachs due to his fetish for bellies and navels, grooming them with gifts, encouraging strip poker, kissing them, and making one touch his penis. The abuse was reported to police, leading to his denial and trial in November 2025 where he did not give evidence and accused victims of lying. Victims described confusion, fear, and numbness in impact statements.
Convicted of eight child sex offences. No previous convictions. Judge noted he caused significant psychological harm, denied responsibility, and showed no insight. Will serve half the term before automatic release and be subject to indefinite sex offender register requirements.
Caroline Broomfield
Benefit fraud *
Sentence
12-month conditional discharge
In October 2020, Caroline Broomfield submitted an online claim for universal credit, failing to declare a divorce settlement she had received. This resulted in her being overpaid £14,249 by the Department of Work and Pensions over the next 18 months. She acted on advice from a friend at a time of stress and later described it as a misunderstanding, believing she was entitled to the money.
Pleaded guilty to benefit fraud. No previous convictions. Acting on advice from a friend under stress. Caring for her mother full-time. Repaying £14,249 overpayment at £30 per month. Judge considered personal mitigation and circumstances, noting no pro-criminal attitudes and low risk of re-offending. No order for court costs.
Ryan Bamblett
Stalking *
Sentence
4 years and 1 month imprisonment
Ryan Bamblett, 28, from Bishops Oak Ride, Tonbridge, stalked three former work colleagues over six years, causing serious alarm and distress. He excessively messaged one victim after she left her job in 2018, continuing despite blocks and police reports in April 2019, using withheld numbers and false names, and creating a fake social media profile in her name. He sent sexual messages and a photo of his penis to a second victim starting six months after she left a convenience store job in November 2022, with contacts every three to six months until June 2024, using another colleague's name. After a short intimate relationship ended in late 2022, he stared intensely at the third victim at their supermarket workplace, then made harassing calls from random numbers in summer 2024, including sounds of masturbation on at least four occasions. Victims reported feeling terrified, vulnerable, powerless, filled with dread, isolated, violated, and unsafe, leading to significant lifestyle changes.
Pleaded guilty to three offences of stalking on the first day of trial. Judge expressed scepticism about remorse. Time on remand taken into account. 10-year restraining orders imposed forbidding contact with victims and banning attendance at their residence or workplace.
Job Khoeseb
Theft *
Sentence
2 years and 9 months imprisonment
Job Khoeseb, 28, of Galleons Drive, Barking, and an accomplice targeted seven victims at cash machines in Strood and Chatham between June and July 2025. They used distraction tactics, such as suggesting the machine had taken the victim's card, allowing the accomplice to withdraw money or steal the card. The pair stole £2,150 in 31 days. Police linked the incidents via suspect vehicles, intercepted one in Gravesend on July 10, 2025, and arrested Khoeseb in Orpington. A search of his home uncovered keys to another involved vehicle.
Pleaded guilty to six counts of theft and one count of attempted theft. Targeted elderly victims including one in his late 80s.
Malcolm Royden
Conspiracy to steal vehicles *
Sentence
2 years and 9 months imprisonment
Malcolm Royden, 55, of Windmill Road, Gillingham, along with Mason James and Fred Wreden, admitted to stealing four high-value vehicles from driveways and attempting to steal three more between December 2024 and January 2025. The group wore dark clothes and balaclavas while targeting homes in Maidstone, Medway, Swale, and Ashford at night. They were arrested on January 24, 2025, after police intercepted their Kia Sportage vehicle near Lenham following reports of an attempted theft in east Kent. Officers recovered matching clothing and tools used in the thefts.
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal vehicles. Part of a crime spree targeting high-value cars.
Mason James
Conspiracy to steal vehicles *
Sentence
2 years and 9 months imprisonment
Mason James, 25, of Tyne Gardens, Aveley, Essex, along with Malcolm Royden and Fred Wreden, admitted to stealing four high-value vehicles from driveways and attempting to steal three more between December 2024 and January 2025. The group wore dark clothes and balaclavas while targeting homes in Maidstone, Medway, Swale, and Ashford at night. They were arrested on January 24, 2025, after police intercepted their Kia Sportage vehicle near Lenham following reports of an attempted theft in east Kent. Officers recovered matching clothing and tools used in the thefts.
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal vehicles. Part of a crime spree targeting high-value cars.
Fred Wreden
Conspiracy to steal vehicles *
Sentence
1 year and 10 months imprisonment, suspended for 2 years
Fred Wreden, 20, of Staplehurst Road, Sittingbourne, along with Mason James and Malcolm Royden, admitted to stealing four high-value vehicles from driveways and attempting to steal three more between December 2024 and January 2025. The group wore dark clothes and balaclavas while targeting homes in Maidstone, Medway, Swale, and Ashford at night. They were arrested on January 24, 2025, after police intercepted their Kia Sportage vehicle near Lenham following reports of an attempted theft in east Kent. Officers recovered matching clothing and tools used in the thefts.
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal vehicles. Part of a crime spree targeting high-value cars.
Kier Middleton-Seath
Breach of Sexual Harm Prevention Order *
Sentence
28 months imprisonment
In March 2025, Middleton-Seath breached his 2022 SHPO by staying at an address with a child, purchasing a phone and setting up a bank account without notifying police, and downloading indecent images of children. He was arrested on March 17, 2025, with controlled drugs found.
Pleaded guilty to three counts of failing to comply with sex offender register, three breaches of SHPO, two counts of making indecent images of children, and possession of cocaine and cannabis. SHPO extended by 10 years.
Jake Everts
Possession with Intent to Supply Drugs *
Sentence
3 years and 6 months imprisonment
On July 22, 2025, police searched Everts' home in Loose following a disturbance and found cocaine, cannabis, £25,000 cash, scales, and money counting machines in a shed. A phone with drug dealing evidence was thrown out.
Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class A and B drugs and possession of criminal property.
Charanjit Singh-Shokar
Causing serious injury by dangerous driving *
Sentence
2 years imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 25 rehabilitation activity requirements, 180 hours unpaid work, 120 days alcohol abstinence monitoring, 4 year driving ban
On February 1, 2024, at around 6pm on St Williams Way, Rochester, a 30mph road, Charanjit Singh-Shokar drove his Volvo S60 at significant speed while over the alcohol limit (126mg in 100ml urine, limit 107mg) and traces of cocaine in system, rear-ending Vanessa Wilkins' Kia Sportage which had pulled out from Fairlead Road junction. The impact propelled her vehicle 30 metres, flipping it onto its side, damaging a parked car and garden wall. Wilkins suffered eight broken ribs, two fractured vertebrae, collapsed lung, blood clots, requiring a week in induced coma and nearly a month in hospital; she has 30% lung capacity and heart damage. Defendant stayed at scene, assisted, but failed breath test. No charges for cocaine. Wilkins unable to drive, suffers ongoing pain and exhaustion.
Pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving with excess alcohol. Judge considered impact on defendant's children and prospects of rehabilitation. Warned of immediate custody if reoffends within 2 years or fails conditions. Lack of insight into offending noted.
Andrew Wedderburn
Wounding with Intent *
Sentence
4 years imprisonment
On April 20, 2025, Wedderburn and Anderson travelled to Chatham Hill, approached a man involved in a previous dispute, leading to a verbal altercation. The victim was pulled to the ground and stabbed, suffering serious injuries. The pair fled and were stopped in a black Audi on the A2 at Gravesend.
Pleaded guilty to wounding with intent. Will serve additional 2 years and 6 months on licence.
Djorn Anderson
Wounding with Intent *
Sentence
5 years and 3 months imprisonment
On April 20, 2025, Wedderburn and Anderson travelled to Chatham Hill, approached a man involved in a previous dispute, leading to a verbal altercation. The victim was pulled to the ground and stabbed, suffering serious injuries. The pair fled and were stopped in a black Audi on the A2 at Gravesend.
Pleaded guilty to wounding with intent and possession of a bladed article. Will serve additional 2 years and 6 months on licence.
Raymond Copping
Multiple child sex offences *
Sentence
16 years imprisonment
Raymond Copping, aged 62 from Fareham in Hampshire, committed multiple child sex offences spanning over 30 years, some in Maidstone. The abuse involved grooming through gifts and treats, performing a sex act on himself in a tent with a child, and continued despite apologies. He manipulated victims by threatening they would be hated and disbelieved. Arrested in 2021 after one victim reported him, prompting another to come forward. Victims suffered severe ongoing psychological harm including anxiety, nightmares, hypervigilance, and damaged trust and intimacy.
Pleaded guilty to all 16 charges. Branded a dangerous offender by Judge Daniel Stevenson. Requested maximum sentence. Genuine remorse expressed. Extended sentence of 20 years total, with 4 years on extended licence. Subject to lifelong sex offender notification requirements and indefinite sexual harm prevention order.
Robert Maytum
Aggravated Burglary *
Sentence
7 years and 2 months imprisonment
On September 8, 2023, in the early hours, several men including Maytum went to a house near Luton Road armed with bladed weapons, wearing gloves and with faces obscured by masks or balaclavas. They gained entry, woke the occupants, assaulted one individual, and demanded information about valuables. They stole two watches and two mobile phones before fleeing.
Convicted after investigation into violent burglary.
Rogel Dumitru
Aggravated Burglary *
Sentence
7 years and 6 months imprisonment
On September 8, 2023, in the early hours, several men including Dumitru went to a house near Luton Road armed with bladed weapons, wearing gloves and with faces obscured by masks or balaclavas. They gained entry, woke the occupants, assaulted one individual, and demanded information about valuables. They stole two watches and two mobile phones before fleeing.
Convicted after investigation into violent burglary.
Sabjon Shehi
Possession of Class A Drugs with Intent to Supply *
Sentence
28 months imprisonment
On August 8, 2025, Shehi was stopped in Tunbridge Wells driving an uninsured purple Jaguar. Police found 10 vials of cocaine hidden in the car, £2,700 cash transferred to Albania, and at his home, a block of cocaine, thousands in cash, and drug dealing equipment.
Pleaded guilty to possessing class A drugs with intent to supply, possessing criminal property, and using a vehicle without insurance. Received 8 points on licence; cash and car forfeited.
Zouhair Etteay
Aggravated Burglary *
Sentence
8 years and 4 months imprisonment
On September 8, 2023, in the early hours, several men including Etteay went to a house near Luton Road armed with bladed weapons, wearing gloves and with faces obscured by masks or balaclavas. They gained entry, woke the occupants, assaulted one individual, and demanded information about valuables. They stole two watches and two mobile phones before fleeing.
Pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary. Fled to Morocco after the offence and was arrested upon return in September 2025.
Denis Calin
Aggravated Burglary *
Sentence
7 years imprisonment
On September 8, 2023, in the early hours, several men including Calin went to a house near Luton Road armed with bladed weapons, wearing gloves and with faces obscured by masks or balaclavas. They gained entry, woke the occupants, assaulted one individual, and demanded information about valuables. They stole two watches and two mobile phones before fleeing.
Convicted after investigation into violent burglary.
Gheorghe-Hagi Constantin
Aggravated Burglary *
Sentence
11 years imprisonment
On September 8, 2023, in the early hours, several men including Constantin went to a house near Luton Road armed with bladed weapons, wearing gloves and with faces obscured by masks or balaclavas. They gained entry, woke the occupants, assaulted one individual, and demanded information about valuables. They stole two watches and two mobile phones before fleeing.
Convicted after investigation into violent burglary.
Alfie Russell
Assault occasioning actual bodily harm and affray *
Sentence
45-week prison sentence suspended for 18 months with 150 hours unpaid work
On September 13, 2025, outside Ye Arrow pub in Rochester High Street, Alfie Russell, then aged 22, sprayed an unidentified substance (claimed to be hand sanitiser) at assistant head teacher Adam Tickner during an unprovoked altercation involving groups of men and women. The incident occurred shortly after 10pm when Russell's group became aggressive towards Tickner and his friends. Russell made a sharp throwing movement, hitting Tickner in the face, causing chemical burns, intense pain, swelling to tongue and lips, and significant distress. The substance also hit a woman in the face, causing her pain and distress. The attack took place in a busy public area while Russell was under the influence of alcohol. No forensic analysis was conducted on the substance, leading to the acceptance of the lesser charge. Tickner required 30 minutes of water flushing by fire crews and overnight hospital treatment.
Guilty plea to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and affray. Sentenced on basis that substance was hand sanitiser, not acid. Ordered to pay £2,000 compensation (£1,200 to Adam Tickner). No previous convictions. Remand and curfew time considered. Judge noted genuine remorse and positive character.
Ion Vasile
Aggravated Burglary *
Sentence
8 years and 5 months imprisonment
On September 8, 2023, in the early hours, several men including Vasile went to a house near Luton Road armed with bladed weapons, wearing gloves and with faces obscured by masks or balaclavas. They gained entry, woke the occupants, assaulted one individual, and demanded information about valuables. They stole two watches and two mobile phones before fleeing.
Convicted after investigation into violent burglary.
December 2025 12 cases
George Dunn
Burglary *
Sentence
6 years and 9 months imprisonment
George Dunn, 42, of Quarry Road in Maidstone, burgled five properties in Tonbridge, Cranbrook, Paddock Wood and Ashford over a three-week period between June and July 2025, stealing at least £3,000 worth of items including jewellery, watches, handbags, money, bank cards and war medals after smashing his way into the homes. Officers found DNA evidence, CCTV footage, a glove, and traces of his blood connecting him to the properties. On July 20, 2025, he sustained life-threatening injuries after crashing his disqualified and uninsured car into a wall and fence in Bayhall Road, Tunbridge Wells, attempted to flee, and was hospitalized in London. He discharged himself on September 1, 2025, and on October 15, 2025, burgled a sixth home in Sissinghurst Road, Biddenden, where he was spotted falling from a window and arrested.
Pleaded guilty to six counts of burglary and multiple traffic offences. A further eight burglaries were taken into consideration.
David Francois
Aiding and abetting causing death by dangerous driving *
Sentence
14.5 years imprisonment
David Francois, intoxicated after consuming alcohol at a family party, initially drove the Ford Transit van dangerously on the wrong side of the road, swerving and nearly crashing, before allowing his unlicensed and intoxicated cousin Tyron Francois to take over despite knowing he could not drive. He encouraged and coached Tyron during the dangerous driving, laughing and joking as captured on dashcam, leading to the fatal collision with pedestrian Jason Bale on Luton Road, Chatham, Kent, on November 27, 2021. David remained at the scene but lied to police about driving and his alcohol consumption, and assaulted four officers. The jury convicted him of sharing responsibility for Mr Bale's death.
Found guilty by jury of aiding and abetting causing death by dangerous driving, plus 18 months consecutive for unrelated offences including assault on emergency workers, intentional strangulation, battery, criminal damage, careless driving, failing to provide a specimen, and possession of a bladed article. Admitted dangerous driving. 12 previous convictions for 25 offences including drink-driving. More than one-and-a-half times the drink-drive limit (128mg blood alcohol). 17-year driving disqualification with extended test requirement. Must serve two-thirds of 13-year term plus half of 18-month term before release.
Tryon Francois
Causing death by dangerous driving *
Sentence
8 years imprisonment
Tryon Francois, 29, of Haig Avenue, Chatham, attended a family social function in Lordswood on November 26, 2021, where he consumed alcohol and was under the influence of drugs. At 12.23am on November 27, 2021, he took over driving David's Ford Transit van after a seat swap due to erratic driving. Travelling in excess of the 30mph speed limit on Luton Road, Chatham, the van mounted the footpath, colliding with brick walls and iron fences, striking and killing pedestrian Jason Bale, who was thrown into the front garden of a basement property. The crash also hit a gas main, causing a leak. Tryon fled the scene.
Pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.
Tyron Francois
Causing death by dangerous driving *
Sentence
8 years imprisonment
Tyron Francois was driving a Ford Transit van without a licence or insurance, under the influence of cocaine, when he struck and killed pedestrian Jason Bale on Luton Road, Chatham, Kent, on November 27, 2021. The crash occurred shortly after swapping seats with his cousin David Francois, following a family party where both were intoxicated. Dashcam footage showed dangerous driving including swerving, clipping kerbs, jumping a red light, and the impact that threw Mr Bale into a front garden, rupturing a gas main. He fled the scene and was arrested hours later, testing positive for cocaine.
Pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving. Four previous convictions for five offences, none related to dangerous driving. Must serve two-thirds before release. No driving ban imposed but subject to extended driving test requirement.
Ricky Dighton
Rape *
Sentence
26-year extended sentence
Ricky Dighton, a 39-year-old resident of Maidstone, subjected his victim to rape and assault by penetration. He denied the charges, claiming his DNA evidence might be from possible sons he fathered and accusing others of lying for money. Despite overwhelming evidence, he maintains his innocence. The crimes caused severe psychological harm to the victim, described as immeasurable, everlasting, and crushing. The offences involved appalling, selfish, and wanton behaviour for sexual gratification, targeting the victim with monstrous and horrific acts of abuse.
Pleaded not guilty, convicted by jury in August. Judge Gareth Branston described him as a pathetic, dangerous man with total lack of insight and empathy. No relevant or recent convictions. Subject to lifelong sex offender notification requirements and indefinite SHPO.
Thomas Ripley
Robbery *
Sentence
7 years and 9 months imprisonment
Thomas Ripley, 29, from Star Lane, Orpington, along with Lewis Turner and Billy Scamp, orchestrated two violent car robberies in Dartford on September 4 and 8, 2024. In the first incident, masked men smashed the window of a red Seat Ibiza on Dartford Heath, punched the driver, dragged him out, and stole the car. In the second, they approached a driver in a layby pretending to ask for food, dragged him from his Audi TT, punched him, struck him with a metal bar, stole the car and a bank card used in Orpington. Ripley was arrested on September 13, 2024, with evidence on his phone including messages arranging the crimes and videos of the stolen cars.
Admitted to two counts of robbery. Incriminating messages and videos found on his phone.
Billy Scamp
Robbery *
Sentence
2 years custody suspended for 2 years with 300 hours unpaid work and 20 rehabilitation activity requirements
Billy Scamp, 19, of Eridge Green Close, Orpington, took part in two violent carjackings on Dartford Heath. On September 4, 2024, he was among four masked men who targeted a Seat Ibiza owner resting before a night shift, smashing the window with a metal baton, assaulting the victim by punching and threatening with the baton, stealing the £27,000 car and items worth £1,700 including a laptop and dashcam. On September 8, 2024, he joined the carjacking of a £40,000 Audi TT from a jet-lagged driver, where the victim was dragged out, punched, and struck with the baton causing injury, before the car was stolen. Scamp provided his car and was manipulated by seasoned criminals due to his naivety; no prior convictions.
Pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery. Aged 18 at time of offences, of previous good character, influenced and cajoled by older co-defendants. Left school at 14 due to dyslexia and bullying; aspiring golfer with rehabilitation prospects. Felt pressured but did not inflict violence.
Lewis Turner
Fraud by false representation *
Sentence
6 years imprisonment with 4 years on licence
Lewis Turner, 34, from Longbury Drive, Orpington, along with Thomas Ripley and Billy Scamp, orchestrated two violent car robberies in Dartford on September 4 and 8, 2024. In the first incident, masked men smashed the window of a red Seat Ibiza on Dartford Heath, punched the driver, dragged him out, and stole the car. In the second, they approached a driver in a layby pretending to ask for food, dragged him from his Audi TT, punched him, struck him with a metal bar, stole the car and a bank card which Turner used less than an hour later at a shop in Orpington to top up his phone. Cell site data and CCTV placed him at the scenes.
Admitted to fraud by false representation. Used stolen bank card to top up mobile phone.
Ben Sullivan
Conspiracy to supply cocaine *
Sentence
10 years and six months’ imprisonment
Ben Sullivan, 32, formerly of William Rigby Drive, Minster-on-Sea, Isle of Sheppey, was involved in a criminal network importing high-purity cocaine from Jamaica, Mexico and Costa Rica, concealed in crates of fruit, and distributing it across the South East UK. More than 650g of cocaine was seized in a July 2024 search of an address linked to him on the Isle of Sheppey. Evidence from phones and encrypted apps showed messages attributed to him giving instructions on quality control, splitting, weighing and delivery of drugs. He was arrested at Stansted Airport in December 2024 attempting to board a flight to Dubai using measures to enter the UK undetected.
Pleaded guilty. Took a leading role in the conspiracy. Will have to serve at least two-thirds of the sentence before he can apply for parole.
Lorenzo King
Burglary *
Sentence
5 years and 4 months imprisonment
Between October 9, 2023 and January 8, 2024, Lorenzo King and Ricky Rixon smashed their way into properties in Sevenoaks and Tonbridge via rear patio doors, carrying out untidy searches. They stole cars and jewellery, including a sentimental ring from a victim's late husband, which they pawned for scrap metal using false names, receiving £7,405. The ring was recovered. They pocketed tens of thousands of pounds from selling stolen goods.
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary and laundering criminal property.
Ricky Rixon
Burglary *
Sentence
5 years and 4 months imprisonment
Between October 9, 2023 and January 8, 2024, Lorenzo King and Ricky Rixon smashed their way into properties in Sevenoaks and Tonbridge via rear patio doors, carrying out untidy searches. They stole cars and jewellery, including a sentimental ring from a victim's late husband, which they pawned for scrap metal using false names, receiving £7,405. The ring was recovered. They pocketed tens of thousands of pounds from selling stolen goods.
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary and laundering criminal property.
Not Stated
Sexual offences against a child *
Sentence
Not stated
Not stated
He is a danger to children and was prepared to travel a considerable distance to commit appalling offences
November 2025 2 cases
Unnamed Man
Grievous Bodily Harm *
Sentence
life imprisonment
The man tortured his partner using a hammer and clothes steamer in a series of brutal attacks, leaving her close to death before she contacted authorities.
Described as a 'vicious bully' who tortured his partner with a hammer and clothes steamer; victim was close to death when she made the call.
Unnamed Men
Theft *
Sentence
imprisonment
The men operated as distraction thieves in Kent, squirting mustard at victims to distract them while stealing thousands of pounds from trusting individuals.
Distraction thieves who squirted mustard at victims and stole thousands of pounds; targeted trusting people.

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

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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