JOHN HEWETT SHOCKS LEYBOURNE AND TADWORTH WITH CHILD SEX OFFENSES AND IMAGE SHARING

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Leybourne and Tadworth, John Hewett, aged 33, was convicted of serious child abuse and the distribution of indecent images involving minors. The court proceedings revealed a pattern of heinous behavior that spanned several years, highlighting the severity of his crimes and the profound impact on the victims involved.

Hewett was found in possession of a total of 75 indecent images depicting children, a collection described by the judge as both 'horrific and disturbing.' Among these, six images were classified as the most severe category (A), indicating the highest level of depravity. These images were not only stored on his devices but also shared with other individuals involved in similar criminal activities, further exacerbating the harm caused.

The court heard from prosecutor Wendy Cottee that Hewett, who was residing in Tadworth at the time of the offenses, had committed multiple 'disgusting acts' involving two young children. The details of these acts were described as deeply troubling, underscoring the extent of his abuse.

Hewett, who has since moved to Leybourne, West Malling in Kent, pleaded guilty in January to seven separate child sex offenses. His guilty plea included three charges related directly to the abuse of children, while the remaining four charges pertained to the possession and distribution of indecent images.

Judge Jonathan Black addressed Hewett directly during sentencing, emphasizing the damage caused by his actions. He stated that Hewett had 'caused distress' to the victims and had 'abused the trust of others,' actions that were driven by a long-standing addiction to pornography. The judge noted that this addiction had rendered Hewett 'desensitized' to the gravity of his crimes.

As a result of his convictions, Hewett was sentenced to a term of six years and eight months in prison. Additionally, he will be subject to a three-year period of supervision on license following his release, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct and preventing further harm.