Gillingham man jailed for committing sexual offences against a child

A Gillingham man has been jailed for committing sexual offences against a child.

Kent Police launched an investigation into Anthony Haines, 77, after a member of the public recorded a video of him kissing his young victim in August 2021.

A subsequent interview with the victim uncovered a string of crimes which had taken place since the beginning of that year.

Following a thorough investigation, Haines was charged with a number of sexual offences.

Guilty

Despite denying his crimes, a Maidstone Crown Court jury found him guilty in August 2026 of 4 counts of sexual activity with a child and 1 of causing a child to engage in sexual activity.

On Wednesday 4 November, the Woodchurch Crescent resident was sentenced to 4 years and 6 months’ imprisonment.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Stuart Ames said:

‘Haines committed indecent acts against a vulnerable victim and was brazen in his offending. ‘The strength of evidence against him ensured the jury convicted him, and I am satisfied he will serve a lengthy term behind bars for his crimes. ‘My thoughts are with his victim, who has been badly affected by the horrific experiences Haines inflicted on them. I hope this sentence will give them a sense of closure.’