JEFFREY MANTLE: HORRIFIC SEX OFFENDER FROM MARGATE AND WESTGATE SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Margate and Westgate, a 77-year-old man named Jeffrey Mantle has been sentenced to a total of six years in prison for a series of heinous sex offences. Mantle, who resides on Essex Road in Westgate, was found guilty of multiple serious crimes involving the abuse of a young child, including six counts of indecent assault and one count of taking indecent images of children, which prosecutors described as being among the most severe and disturbing cases they have handled.

The conviction was handed down at Maidstone Crown Court on a Monday, following a detailed investigation that uncovered video footage linking Mantle to the offences. This evidence was discovered during an inquiry into another individual, Michael Tully, a 58-year-old man formerly living on Warren Close in Folkestone. Tully had previously admitted to committing 30 sex offences, which included six counts of indecency with a child, 11 counts of indecent assault of a girl under the age of 16, and nine counts of rape.

Detective Constable Kay Sankey, a representative of Kent Police’s Public Protection Unit, emphasized the gravity of the crimes and the long-lasting impact on the victims. She stated, “These offences took place over 10 years ago, and I have no doubt that Mantle continued with his life believing he had gotten away with his terrible crimes.” She further explained that Mantle had conspired with Tully to carry out these horrific acts on a vulnerable young girl. The victim’s bravery and resilience in assisting police investigations were highlighted as crucial in bringing the offenders to justice.

Detective Sankey reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to protecting children and prosecuting those who commit such crimes. “The sentencing of these serious offenders demonstrates Kent Police’s unwavering determination to bring dangerous individuals to justice. We will continue to pursue those who abuse children in this way and ensure they are held accountable in court,” she said.

During the sentencing hearing, His Honour Judge Andrew Patience described the case as one of the worst he had ever presided over. He condemned Mantle’s actions as “indescribably wicked,” noting that Mantle was an enthusiastic participant in the crimes and took full advantage of a vulnerable victim, who was undoubtedly terrified. The judge also remarked that the victim would likely carry the scars of this trauma for the rest of her life.

As part of his sentence, Mantle was ordered to serve six years for each of the assault counts and an additional two years for the offence related to indecent images. These sentences are to run concurrently, meaning he will serve the full six-year term. Furthermore, upon his release, Mantle will be required to sign the sex offenders register, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities and preventing further harm to the community.