DAVID ANNETT'S SHOCKING MOLESTATION IN SHEERNESS: FOSTER CARER JAILED FOR SIX YEARS

In February 2015, a disturbing case emerged involving David Annett, a 63-year-old foster carer from Sheerness, who was convicted of sexually assaulting a teenage girl he had invited into his home under the pretense of doing chores. The incident, which took place in Sheerness, resulted in Annett being sentenced to six years in prison for his actions.

According to court proceedings, the teenage girl arrived at Annett’s residence expecting to perform some chores in exchange for payment. However, upon her arrival, she was told that there were no chores to be done. Annett then proceeded to behave inappropriately, initially hugging her and squeezing her bottom. He also made inappropriate comments about her appearance, telling her how pretty she was. The situation escalated when Annett placed his hand down her trousers, despite her protests and pleas to be allowed to leave. The girl repeatedly told him to stop, but he ignored her requests, continued pulling down her trousers, and then lifted her top and bra, making further inappropriate comments and actions, including kissing her nipple.

The girl managed to escape from Annett’s home in Sheerness, visibly upset and crying. Her boyfriend, who had been waiting outside, noticed her distress and immediately learned what had transpired. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, he urged her to report the incident to the police. His quick response was later praised by the judge at Maidstone Crown Court, as it led to the collection of DNA evidence that linked Annett to the offences.

Initially, Annett denied any sexual contact when questioned after his arrest. However, subsequent forensic analysis revealed traces of his DNA, confirming his involvement. It was only during his second court appearance that Annett admitted to three counts of sexual assault, after initially denying the allegations. Throughout the proceedings, Annett, who resides on Second Avenue, appeared visibly shaken in the dock as the sentence was handed down.

Judge Michael Carroll emphasized that the most serious aspect of the case was the initial incident, but he also criticized Annett for persisting in his misconduct despite the victim’s clear protests. The judge noted, “She was telling you to stop and you didn’t. Your behaviour on this day was sustained.”

In determining the length of the sentence, the judge took into account Annett’s age, health, and previously good character, including his role as a foster carer. It was also revealed that Annett had suffered a stroke following the offences in October 2013 and was now separated from his wife. As part of his sentence, Annett is required to register as a sex offender indefinitely upon his release.

Prosecutor Simon Taylor highlighted the victim’s distress and the importance of the timely police response. He praised the girl’s boyfriend for his swift action in encouraging her to report the incident, which facilitated the collection of DNA evidence. Taylor also expressed surprise that Annett did not admit guilt at the earliest opportunity, given the evidence against him.

Defence lawyer Shaffiq Amin acknowledged the gravity of Annett’s actions, describing them as a moment of impulsive stupidity. Amin stated, “It was a spur of the moment thing. He doesn’t know what came over him and he has lived to regret it.”

Ultimately, the court’s decision reflects the seriousness of the offences committed by David Annett in Sheerness, and the six-year sentence underscores the need for accountability in cases of sexual misconduct involving vulnerable individuals.