FRANCIS CHOWN CAUGHT IN ROMNEY AND STOCKTON AFTER EVADING DETECTION

In a significant development in ongoing efforts to combat sexual offences, Francis Chown, aged 52, was apprehended after authorities uncovered his failure to adhere to a sexual offences prevention order. Chown had deliberately changed his address in an attempt to evade law enforcement scrutiny, a move that ultimately led to his detection.

Chown, who was on licence at the time, had relocated to Kent, specifically to the areas of Romney and Stockton. Despite the restrictions placed upon him, he was found socialising with children without informing the relevant authorities, thereby breaching the conditions of his order. This breach raised serious concerns about the safety of minors and the effectiveness of supervision measures in place.

Following his arrest and subsequent court proceedings, Chown was sentenced to six months in jail. However, the sentence was suspended for 18 months, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed another offence within that period. Additionally, the court ordered him to be under supervision, with strict conditions imposed on any contact he might have with minors. These measures aim to prevent any further breaches and to protect vulnerable individuals from potential harm.

The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in monitoring individuals subject to sexual offences prevention orders, especially when they attempt to evade detection through relocation or other means. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of compliance with such orders to ensure community safety and prevent reoffending.