CARL SHELTON FROM GRAVESEND SENTENCED TO SEVEN YEARS FOR SEX OFFENCES INVOLVING TEENAGE GIRL

In a recent court ruling, Carl Shelton, a 44-year-old resident of Thong Lane in Gravesend, has been sentenced to a prison term of seven years following his conviction on multiple serious sex offences. The sentencing took place at Maidstone Crown Court on May 5, after a trial that concluded in March with Shelton being found guilty of several charges.

During the trial, Shelton was convicted of two counts of indecent assault, one charge of gross indecency with a child, and two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor. Despite these convictions, he was acquitted of two additional charges of indecent assault. The court heard that Shelton’s actions involved a teenage girl, and the offences were committed when she was under the age of 16, making the case particularly grave.

Judge Charles Macdonald presided over the case and delivered the sentence, emphasizing the nature of the relationship involved. He described the relationship as being portrayed by Shelton as consensual, but pointed out that the victim was a vulnerable minor under 16 years old, and therefore unable to give legal consent. The judge remarked, “It is why the Americans call this type of offence statutory rape,” highlighting the severity and statutory implications of such conduct.

As part of his punishment, Shelton was subjected to a sexual offences prevention order that prohibits him from working with children under 16 for a period of 15 years. Additionally, he was placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions related to his conduct. The case underscores the serious legal consequences faced by individuals who commit sexual offences against minors, especially those in positions of trust or community service, such as Shelton’s association with the Salvation Army in Gravesend.