ANDREW BOND FROM TONBRIDGE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST TEENAGE GIRL IN KENT

In a case that has shocked the community of Tonbridge and the surrounding areas, Andrew Bond, a 51-year-old man from Silver Close, Tonbridge, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offences committed against a teenage girl. The crimes, which spanned over four years, involved disturbing acts that took place in various locations, including a local park and inside Bond's own vehicle.

Bond's offending began in 2008, when he started abusing the girl, who was under the age of 16 at the time. Over the course of these years, he continued to commit further offences, exploiting the victim's youth and trust. To prevent her from revealing the abuse, Bond reportedly told her that she would be blamed for what had happened and that “everyone would hate her,” a tactic aimed at silencing her and maintaining his secrecy.

The victim eventually confided in her mother about the abuse in September of the previous year. This revelation prompted immediate action, and Bond was confronted by the victim’s mother. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Bond surrendered himself to police authorities at Tonbridge police station on October 1, 2013.

During police interviews, Bond denied some of the allegations, claiming that his poor health, including strokes, had impaired his memory of the events. He admitted that he knew his actions were wrong but expressed confusion over why he was unable to stop himself, citing health issues as a possible reason for his behavior.

His court appearance took place at Maidstone Crown Court on May 9, where he faced multiple charges. Bond pleaded guilty to one count of rape, one count of sexual assault of a child under 13, and four counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child under 16. The judge sentenced him to seven years and eight months in prison, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the impact on the victim.

Leading the investigation was Detective Constable Brian Elsdon, who commented on the case: “Bond tried to scare his victim into thinking that she would be the one to suffer if his crimes were ever exposed. However, it is thanks to the courage of this child that he will now spend a lengthy time in prison, where he will have time to reflect on the incredible amount of damage that he has caused.

“This case shows that the police will always listen and investigate and that no one should suffer in silence. I would urge anyone who may be suffering abuse or who has been a victim of crime in the past to come forward now and speak to us.”

As part of his sentence, Bond will be subject to a sex offender prevention order, and his name will be entered onto the sex offenders’ register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for victims to seek help without fear of judgment or reprisal.