JOHN ADAM OF NORTHFLEET SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL IN LONDON ROAD

In August 2013, a disturbing case involving a local sex offender from Northfleet culminated in the sentencing of John Adam to a two-year prison term. The court heard harrowing details of his inappropriate conduct towards a young girl, which prompted a stern response from Judge Jeremy Carey.

John Adam, aged 58 and residing on London Road in Northfleet, was found guilty of sexually abusing a minor. The judge did not hold back in his condemnation, stating that Adam deserved an immediate custodial sentence without hesitation. He described Adam’s actions as “truly disgusting,” emphasizing the disturbing nature of his behavior.

Judge Carey expressed concern about the lasting impact such offending could have on the young victim. He remarked, “That offending will have an impact upon her,” adding that while the extent of the harm might be uncertain, it was clear that an innocent child would be acutely aware of the grossness of the offense. The judge’s comments underscored the serious psychological and emotional toll that such abuse can inflict on a young person.

Earlier in the year, Adam appeared before North Kent magistrates, where he admitted to charges of sexual assault and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. Following his admission, he was committed to Maidstone Crown Court for sentencing. Prosecutor Sarah Lindop provided details of the abuse, revealing that Adam had kissed the girl on the mouth, moving his tongue around and licking her lips in a manner described as “trying to put his tongue between them.”

Further disturbing revelations emerged during the court proceedings. Adam had invited the girl to touch his genitals, an act he later confessed to, despite the girl never disclosing the incident to police. The court was told that another child overheard the exchange, which led to Adam’s confession. During his interview, Adam claimed he had not been sexually active for several years, citing his age as a reason, and suggested that his actions were part of a “fantasy world” that he believed was not harming anyone.

It was also revealed that Adam had a history of similar offenses, with multiple convictions for indecent exposure spanning from 1971 to 1983. On the day of the offense, he had consumed two bottles of wine, which his defense argued might explain his behavior. Defense lawyer Andrew Espley acknowledged that while intoxication does not excuse such conduct, it could have acted as a disinhibitor.

Mr. Espley also highlighted that Adam’s early confession spared the victim the ordeal of giving evidence in court. He stated, “It was made clear he was never going to call the child a liar and that if she said it then it must have been true.”

Following his release from prison, Adam will be required to register as a sex offender for the next ten years and is likely to face restrictions on working with children, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the court’s concern for public safety.