ANDREW WALDING'S SHOCKING CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN GRAVESEND LEAD TO 11-YEAR JAIL SENTENCE

In March 2011, a disturbing case involving a former soldier and bus driver from Gravesend culminated in a lengthy prison sentence after he was found guilty of multiple serious sexual offenses against minors. Andrew Walding, aged 47 and residing on Rochester Road in Gravesend, was convicted of a series of heinous acts that included three counts of rape, two charges of engaging in sexual activity with a child, one count of indecent assault, and an additional charge of attempted penetration.

The prosecution, led by Donna East, detailed how Walding had sexually assaulted a young girl, touching her inappropriately and coercing her into touching him. Similar allegations were made concerning another young victim, highlighting a pattern of predatory behavior. The court heard that Walding’s actions caused significant trauma to the victims, who demonstrated remarkable bravery by coming forward and reporting the incidents.

When arrested, Walding attempted to deny any sexual interest in children, claiming that he was bisexual and that his primary sexual attractions were directed towards men. His defense attorney, Nathalie Carter, acknowledged Walding’s insight into the wrongfulness of his actions, stating, “He does have insight. He knows what he has done is deeply wrong. That insight may reduce the likelihood of offending in the future.”

It was also revealed that Walding, who served in the British Army for over six years, had a significant interest in sex and used online platforms to seek out men with similar sexual orientations. The judge, Philip Statman, expressed his concern over the case, emphasizing the impact on the victims and the gravity of the offenses. He noted that both victims had received counseling and had shown courage in making their complaints.

Judge Statman commented on the possibility that Walding’s military service might have influenced his behavior but underscored that, as an adult, he had the capacity to make choices. The judge expressed concern about whether Walding’s actions indicated a pattern of offending, stating, “The most worrying aspect of this case is whether you cross into that area of sentence whereby I should consider imprisonment for public protection or an extended sentence for public protection.”

He further explained that the case was very close to the threshold for such measures but ultimately decided on a substantial determinate sentence, reflecting the seriousness of the crimes. Walding’s name will be permanently added to the sex offenders’ register, and he will be subject to a sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits him from working with children or vulnerable adults in the future.

Judge Statman concluded by condemning Walding’s actions and emphasizing the importance of protecting the community from individuals who pose a risk to children, especially those with a history of grooming and sexual misconduct.