JAKE BOOTH FROM TONBRIDGE SENTENCED AFTER ILLEGAL ENCOUNTER IN CHILD'S HOME

A convicted sex offender, Jake Booth of Pembury Grove in Tonbridge, has been sentenced to prison after a disturbing incident involving a minor. Booth, who was already under a sexual harm prevention order, was found by police officers in a child's bed, an alarming breach of the restrictions placed upon him.

Booth’s criminal history includes previous convictions for creating indecent images of children in 2022. Despite this, he managed to establish a deceptive relationship with a teenage girl by exploiting online platforms. He initially created a chat group dedicated to motorbike enthusiasts, which he used as a means to contact the young girl. As their online conversations progressed, they moved to Snapchat, where Booth arranged to meet the girl and her parents in person.

Through manipulation and gaining the trust of the family, Booth convinced them that he was merely a close friend, which led to him being allowed to stay in their home. Unbeknownst to the family, Booth was subject to a strict sexual harm prevention order that prohibited any unsupervised contact or communication with individuals under the age of 16. This order, issued for ten years, was designed to prevent further harm and included measures to restrict his interactions with minors.

On April 11, 2024, authorities executed an arrest warrant and apprehended Booth. During the arrest, officers discovered him in the child's bed, a clear violation of the court order. He faced multiple charges, including 14 counts related to breaches of the sexual harm prevention order and sex offender notification requirements.

Booth appeared before Maidstone Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to all charges. His sentencing took place on January 31, and he was handed a prison term of three years. The case highlights the ongoing risks posed by individuals under strict legal restrictions who attempt to breach those safeguards, especially in cases involving vulnerable minors.