SEVENOAKS SEX OFFENDER JAMES MOCKFORD CAUGHT WITH KNIFE AND FACES COURT AFTER OFFENSES

In a recent incident in Sevenoaks, James Mockford, a known sex offender, was apprehended by police while carrying a kitchen knife. The event took place on the evening of March 2, when officers stopped him on Grosvenor Road. During the police stop, Mockford, who resides on High Brooms Road, was found to have the knife concealed in his jacket pocket, leading to his immediate arrest.

At the Sevenoaks Magistrates' Court, Mockford, aged 22, pleaded guilty to the charges. These included possession of a bladed weapon, failing to notify the authorities of a change of address, and committing a further offence while under a conditional discharge. The court was informed that Mockford had previously been convicted of sexual activity with a 14-year-old girl in August of the previous year, which resulted in his registration on the sex offenders' register for a period of two years.

During the hearing, the court heard from his defense attorney, Matthew Nickolls, who emphasized that Mockford's possession of the knife was linked to self-harm tendencies. Nickolls stated, "The fact that he had the knife to self-harm suggests he still needs support. He has an alcohol addiction and knows what is going to be expected of him. He wants to improve his situation."

In addition to the criminal charges, magistrates ordered Mockford to undergo a 12-month supervision order and imposed a fine of £100 to cover court costs. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the behavior and rehabilitation of offenders in the Sevenoaks area, with authorities emphasizing the importance of monitoring and support for individuals with a history of offenses.