DEAN MCCLUSKEY FROM GILLINGHAM JAILED FOR CHILD RAPE IN CHATHAM

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community, Dean McCluskey, a 42-year-old resident of Kennington Close in Gillingham, has been sentenced to prison for the heinous crime of child rape. The incident involved a 12-year-old girl from Chatham, and the court proceedings revealed a disturbing pattern of grooming and exploitation by McCluskey.

McCluskey had initially denied two charges of rape brought against him. However, after a thorough trial at Maidstone Crown Court, the jury found him guilty of one count of rape and acquitted him of the other. The court was informed that McCluskey had systematically groomed the young girl, gaining her trust over a period before committing the assault. The attack took place on September 10, 2008, in Chatham, a town known for its historic significance and vibrant community.

The police investigation was swift following the incident. McCluskey was arrested the day after the assault and was formally charged on January 5, 2009. The case also included an allegation that another incident occurred on July 28, 2008, but McCluskey was cleared of that particular charge.

During the sentencing hearing held on January 12, McCluskey received an indeterminate prison sentence of 12 years. The judge stipulated that he must serve a minimum of six years before being eligible for parole, emphasizing the severity of his actions and the danger he poses to society.

Detective Constable Jane Miller, who led the investigation, expressed her thoughts on the case. She stated, “McCluskey denied responsibility for this terrible offence and has put the victim and her family through the ordeal of a trial at Crown Court. I must thank them for being prepared to support the police investigation and help us to achieve this positive outcome.”

She further added, “McCluskey groomed a vulnerable child at the age of 12 for his own sexual gratification. This has been a difficult case for everyone involved, but we are pleased that McCluskey has been recognised as a dangerous offender and given a significant sentence. We hope that this acts as some form of closure for the victim.”

The case underscores the importance of vigilance and community support in protecting children from predators. The community in Gillingham and Chatham can now be assured that justice has been served, and individuals like McCluskey are held accountable for their heinous crimes.