KEVIN GAMMOND FROM WELWYN GARDEN CITY JAILED FOR SEX OFFENSES AFTER VIGILANTE STING

In a significant case that highlights the ongoing efforts to combat online predatory behavior, Kevin Gammond, a 56-year-old resident of Ley Walk in Welwyn Garden City, was sentenced to prison after being caught in a sting operation conducted by vigilante paedophile hunters. The incident, which unfolded over a span of fourteen months, involved Gammond engaging in covert communications with an individual he believed to be a teenage girl named ‘Faye’.

During these exchanges, Gammond sent explicit images of his genitalia and made arrangements to meet her in Basingstoke, demonstrating a disturbing intent to engage in sexual activity with a minor. He also inquired about her appearance, requesting photographs of her in a bikini or swimwear, and asked whether she had a boyfriend, further indicating his inappropriate interest.

Judge Philip Grey presided over the case at St Albans Crown Court and delivered a stern judgment, stating, “You were highly sexually attracted to what you thought was a 14-year-old girl.” The court heard that Gammond had looked into train tickets for a planned meeting in Basingstoke but ultimately decided against traveling because he could not afford it. Despite knowing the girl’s age, Gammond expressed that it did not bother him as long as she engaged in sexual activity with him.

The judge emphasized the severity of Gammond’s actions, noting that if he had not been caught in the vigilante operation, he might have successfully found a real young girl to pursue with his perverted intentions. Gammond’s arrest came in December 2016 after the vigilante group contacted police authorities. During police interviews, Gammond admitted to the conversations with ‘Faye’ and confirmed he was aware she was only 14 years old.

It was also revealed that Gammond has a prior conviction for harassment dating back to 2012. In that case, he had met a 17-year-old girl through a local drop-in centre and subsequently sent her a letter containing explicit sexual details. He also physically touched her inappropriately by slapping her bottom, which caused her to feel alarmed and distressed. Gammond was cautioned for this earlier offense.

Further context about Gammond’s personal life indicates that he is the sole carer for his partner, who suffers from speech difficulties and dyslexia. Additionally, Gammond has been living with epilepsy since childhood, which adds to the complexity of his circumstances.

During the sentencing hearing, Angela Kerner, representing Gammond, stated, “He needs help,” highlighting the need for intervention beyond punishment. Gammond, who had previously pleaded guilty, was sentenced to a term of 12 months in prison, with a minimum of six months to be served. He will also be registered as a sex offender for the next ten years and will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order, underscoring the serious nature of his offenses and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.