Ramsgate sex offender sentenced for historic abuse

A sex offender from Ramsgate has been jailed for over 20 years after his crimes were uncovered 30 years later.

Historic abuse

John Sladden carried out a sustained campaign of sexual abuse against three young girls over several years. In March 2024, all three victims made formal reports to Kent Police.

Two victims initially came forward together, reporting that Sladden had sexually assaulted them on multiple occasions when they were children. A third victim later contacted officers, stating that she had been subjected to prolonged sexual abuse by Sladden over several years in her childhood.

Based on their accounts, detectives established that the offences took place from the late 1990s into the early 2000s. A thorough investigation was launched, involving detailed enquiries into the historic offences.

Guilty

The 72-year-old was arrested and charged with multiple sexual offences. Following a four-week trial at Canterbury Crown Court, on 11 June 2026 a jury found him guilty of 11 child sexual offences. Sladden was sentenced at the same court on Friday 3 July to 21 years’ imprisonment.

Detective Constable Susan Kingsnorth said:

‘This was a complex investigation into multiple reports of historic sexual abuse, and I am pleased that our specialist team was able to secure justice for the victims. Sladden’s abuse of these three women has had a devastating and lasting impact on their lives, and I hope this conviction can provide them with some comfort. ‘I hope this outcome encourages other victims who have suffered sexual abuse, no matter how long ago, to come forward and speak to us. You will be listened to and supported.’