FREDDY WALTER FROM EDENBRIDGE SENTENCED TO OVER 11 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES

In a case that has shocked the community of Edenbridge, Freddy Walter, a 73-year-old resident of Stoneyfield, was handed a lengthy prison sentence after being found guilty of committing serious child sex offences spanning over four decades.

Walter's criminal activities included repeated acts of abuse against a young victim during the 1970s and 1980s. These heinous acts were not isolated, as he later targeted a different victim between the years 2008 and 2010, demonstrating a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior.

The investigation into Walter's actions was initiated after concerns were formally raised to Kent Police in December 2015. Following these reports, authorities moved swiftly to apprehend him. During police interviews, Walter chose not to provide any comments or explanations regarding the allegations. However, during his court appearance, he pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including two counts of indecent assault against a child, one count of gross indecency with a child, one count of assault by penetration, and charges related to causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

His court hearing took place at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday, February 24. The judge sentenced Walter to a total of 11 years and two months in prison. In addition to his custodial sentence, he was also handed a two-year extension on license, which will impose strict supervision upon his release. Furthermore, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order was issued, prohibiting him from having any contact with children, aiming to prevent further harm and protect potential future victims.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and the justice system to address and penalize child sexual abuse, especially when such offenses span many years and involve multiple victims. The community of Edenbridge and the wider Kent area will undoubtedly be affected by the severity of Walter’s crimes and the subsequent legal consequences.