JASON ETHERIDGE FROM CANTERBURY SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST YOUNG GIRLS

In a case that has shocked the community of Canterbury, Jason Etheridge, a 43-year-old man from Suffolk Road, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 18 years after being found guilty of multiple serious sexual offences involving young girls. The court heard that Etheridge's actions were not only predatory but also marked by threats and intimidation, with one particularly disturbing incident where he threatened to douse a victim in petrol and set her alight, revealing the extent of his violent tendencies.

Judge Adele Williams delivered a stern judgment, describing Etheridge as a bully who employed violence, threats, intimidation, bribery, and indoctrination to manipulate his victims. She emphasized that his first known victim was a teenager, whom he coerced into submitting to his degrading sexual demands, including acts of rape. The court was told that Etheridge's pattern of abuse was driven by perverted lust, with one victim explaining that his desire was rooted in her perceived beauty.

Etheridge's criminal record was extensive; he had appeared in court over 30 times and had been convicted of 158 previous offences, none of which were sexual in nature. Despite his history, he had denied all seven sexual offences he was convicted of in this case.

Following his conviction, the judge sentenced Etheridge to serve a minimum of 12 years before he could be considered for parole. Additionally, the court extended his license by three years, reflecting the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the public. The judge made it clear that Etheridge remains a danger and would only be released when the parole board deems it safe to do so. Furthermore, he will be required to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

Etheridge's criminal history includes numerous previous convictions, but notably, none were sexual offences until this case. His repeated appearances in court highlight a troubling pattern of behavior, and his sentencing underscores the judiciary's stance on protecting vulnerable individuals from predatory offenders in the Canterbury area.