November 2014

Man caged for seven years after Yalding attempted rape of schoolgirl

A man who attempted to rape a schoolgirl in a Yalding car park has been sentenced to seven years in prison.

Gavin Jones drove a 14 year old girl to an empty car park at Yalding Train Station in 2006, and threatened her with violence unless she removed her clothes.

Jones, 36, formerly of Abbey Wood, London knew the victim through an acquaintance. On May 10, 2006 he arranged to drive her from a place she had been working to her home address.

He headed instead for the train station, telling his victim “I’m going to scare you” as he drove to the car park. He locked all the doors and broke the victim’s phone so she couldn’t call the police, before attempting to rape her.

Jones threatened and terrified his victim to the extent that initially she too scared to report the offence.

However, in May 2014 Kent Police received information linking him to the incident. Officers then approached the victim, who agreed to pursue charges.

Jones appeared at Maidstone Crown Court on November 18 having previously pleaded guilty to one charge of attempted rape.

He was sentenced to 7 years in prison and placed on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely.

Detective constable Jono Pearce said: “I am delighted with the sentence and would like to thank the victim who showed great courage in coming forward and assisting with our investigation.

“Jones has finally been brought to justice for an offence which occurred eight years ago and I would like to remind anyone who is a victim of a sexual assault that it doesn’t matter how long ago an offence had occurred we will always investigate every single complaint.”

Detective sergeant Paddy Kerr, of British Transport Police, added: “Violent crime on the railway is rare, but this was a truly horrific crime; a frightening experience for the victim.

“We will investigate any incidents of unwanted sexual behaviour reported to us. Our officers will do everything they can to catch offenders.

“I want to thank Kent Police for a thorough investigation that has concluded with the offender behind bars.”