A man from Kent has been sentenced to prison for a historical indecent assault on a teenage girl in the coastal town of Broadstairs.
Stephen Hammond, 63, of no fixed address but previously residing in the Broadstairs area, was found guilty of attacking a 16-year-old girl in the 1990s. The shocking crime, which left a lasting impact on the victim, was recently brought to light through a thorough investigation by the Kent Police Complex Investigation Team.
Details of the Case and Police Investigation
The court heard how the assault occurred when Hammond offered the vulnerable teenager a place to stay. He was convicted of one count of indecent assault following a trial at Canterbury Crown Court.
Detective Constable Lee Tullett of the Kent Police Complex Investigation Team praised the victim's immense courage in coming forward decades after the traumatic event. He stated: "This was a horrific incident which has understandably had a significant and long-lasting impact on the victim. I would like to praise her for the immense courage she has shown in coming forward and helping us bring Hammond to justice."
Sentencing and Aftermath
In addition to his prison sentence, Hammond was also made subject to the terms of the Sex Offenders Register for a period of 10 years. This ruling ensures he will be monitored and his activities restricted upon his release.
The case serves as a stark reminder that time is no barrier to justice for sexual offences. Kent Police have reiterated their commitment to fully investigating all reports of sexual abuse, regardless of how much time has passed, and supporting victims throughout the judicial process.
