KEVIN SHERWOOD'S SHOCKING CRIME SPREE IN POOLE: CHILD SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED

In a disturbing series of events that unfolded in Poole, Kevin Sherwood, a 53-year-old man residing in the Parkstone area, was found guilty of engaging in heinous sexual misconduct involving underage girls. His residence on Trinidad Crescent became a troubling hub where numerous schoolchildren gathered, not only to purchase inexpensive cigarettes and alcohol but also to be subjected to inappropriate and criminal behavior by Sherwood.

According to court reports, Sherwood's actions included touching some of the young girls, showing one a pornographic film, and performing a sexual act in front of another minor. The victims, all girls aged between 13 and 15, endured these traumatic experiences over a period spanning from May to November 2011. The court heard that these children would visit Sherwood’s home in school uniform, often during school hours or immediately before and after, indicating a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior.

Poole council officials had previously issued warnings to Sherwood regarding the sale of items from his home, which was attracting a large number of young visitors. Despite these warnings, children continued to frequent his residence, with Sherwood instructing them to avoid the front door and instead use a gap in the back fence to gain entry, suggesting an attempt to evade detection.

Further evidence presented in court revealed that Sherwood had taken photographs of a girl without her knowledge and displayed a pornographic image and film to the children. He also performed a sexual act in front of one girl and engaged in inappropriate behavior by throwing jelly beans down a girl’s top, asking if he could reach down to retrieve them. These actions underscored the severity of his misconduct.

During police interviews, Sherwood claimed he was a well-liked member of the community who often invited children over to watch television and play on the computer. However, this claim was starkly contradicted by the evidence of his criminal activities.

Prosecutor David Jenkins told Bournemouth Crown Court that Sherwood admitted to nine charges of sexual activity with a child and three counts of causing a child to watch a sexual act. The court also heard that Poole housing officials had warned Sherwood in October 2011 that his tenancy could be at risk if he continued his illegal activities. Despite this, he continued to conduct his misconduct, which included instructing children to enter his home through the back fence to avoid detection.

In sentencing, Judge Peter Johnson acknowledged the gravity of Sherwood’s crimes. He sentenced him to 12 months in prison for the sexual offenses, with an additional six months added for breaching a previous suspended sentence related to possession of cannabis with intent to supply in July 2010. Sherwood was also ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for a period of ten years and was barred from any contact with individuals under the age of 16 during that time.

Two parents of the victims expressed their belief that the sentence was insufficient, emphasizing the seriousness of Sherwood’s actions and the lasting impact on the young girls involved. The case highlights the ongoing concerns about safeguarding children from predators within local communities and the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community awareness.