Child rapist from Ashford jailed for more than 20 years

A sex offender from Ashford who targeted both children and adults has been jailed for more than 20 years.

In 2021, an investigation was launched into Lewis Stevens after allegations were made that he had raped two children in the late 2000s.

While enquiries were underway, a woman reported to officers she had also been raped by Stevens and another complained he had sent her indecent images of himself.

Officers also established he had sexually assaulted a third child. Stevens, of Newtown Green, was arrested in November 2021 and later charged with multiple sexual offences.

Court

He denied all allegations against him and was convicted by a Maidstone Crown Court jury of 10 charges including five counts of rape of a child.

At the same court on Thursday 16 July, Stevens, 34, was given an extended sentence of 22 years and 6 months in prison. He will serve a further 6 years and 6 months on licence when he becomes eligible for parole.

Remorseless

Investigating officer Detective Constable Robert Hughes said:

‘Stevens’ sickening crimes occurred over a prolonged period of time, showing him to be a persistent and remorseless danger to the community. ‘His victims have endured horrific experiences, and Stevens’ denial of his actions have forced them to relive them in what must have been a very difficult court process. ‘We are satisfied he will spend a long time behind bars, and we hope this jail term will give those he’s abused a sense that justice has been served.’