COLIN WRAIGHT'S HORRIFIC CRIMES IN CANTERBURY: POLICE OFFICER TURNED CHILD ABUSER SENTENCED

In August 2017, a disturbing case unfolded involving Colin Wraight, a man with a background as a former police officer, who was ultimately convicted of heinous child abuse crimes in Canterbury. Wraight, aged 66 and residing on St Margaret’s Street in Canterbury, was found guilty of sexually abusing a young girl over a period of several years. The victim, whose identity remains protected due to legal restrictions, was so overwhelmed by the trauma that she collapsed after giving her testimony during a five-day trial at Canterbury Crown Court.

Wraight’s history included service as a soldier before he joined Kent Police, where he worked in various locations including Whitstable, Ashford, and Ramsgate. Despite his law enforcement background, Wraight denied all charges related to child sexual abuse and the possession of indecent images of children. However, the evidence presented in court was overwhelming, leading to his conviction on nine counts of child abuse and three additional charges concerning the making or possession of indecent images.

The judge presiding over the case, Rupert Lowe, sentenced Wraight to 19 years in prison. Additionally, upon his release, Wraight will be subject to a two-year license period, during which he will be monitored closely. The court heard that the abuse was carried out over several years, only coming to light after the victim decided to report the crimes to police in May. The young girl recounted that Wraight would threaten her with physical violence or handcuff her to the bed if she tried to refuse his advances.

Evidence revealed that the victim had expressed her suffering through drawings, including images of a hand and handcuffs, which she later explained to police. She described how Wraight had threatened to cuff her to a bed and had even created a disturbing video of the abuse. The police investigation led to Wraight’s arrest at a caravan park in Swalecliffe, an area where he previously resided and where most of the abuse was believed to have taken place. During the search of his residence, authorities discovered a collection of handcuffs, a police truncheon, sex toys including a vibrator, and illegal images of children stored on his computer.

Wraight attempted to justify his possession of sex toys by claiming he was into bondage with a partner and that he suffered from erectile dysfunction. The victim’s mother delivered a heartfelt statement before sentencing, expressing that their lives had been irreparably changed by Wraight’s actions. She admitted to struggling to maintain composure, stating, “Inside my head I am screaming.”

Detective Constable Zara Meacham, who led the investigation, emphasized the gravity of Wraight’s actions, stating, “There can be no excuse for Wraight’s actions. He was able to manipulate, abuse, and bully for his own repugnant notions and showed no consideration for the detrimental effect it could have on others.” She praised the victim’s bravery in coming forward, highlighting her determination and courage in supporting the investigation.

Judge Lowe remarked on the sinister nature of Wraight’s character, noting that he had concealed this dark side for many years. The sentencing reflects the severity of his crimes and the profound impact on his young victim, leaving a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals who abuse positions of trust and authority.