KEVIN STEPHENS SHOCKS OKEHAMPTON AND BRADNINCH WITH SEX OFFENDER REVELATION AND ARREST

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Bradninch and Okehampton, Kevin Stephens, a man with a troubling criminal history, has been sentenced to eight months in prison after moving into a residence with a young mother and her 12-year-old son without disclosing his past offences. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of monitoring sex offenders and the importance of strict compliance with registration laws.

Stephens, aged 52, was found to have relocated from his previous home in Holsworthy to the Okehampton area. Under the law, he was required to inform police of any change of address, especially given his status on the Sex Offenders’ Register. However, he deliberately failed to do so, fully aware that informing the authorities would lead to the disclosure of his past convictions to the woman he was now living with. His decision to conceal his history was a calculated move to integrate into the community unnoticed.

His new residence was in Okehampton, where he moved in with a young mother and her son. Unbeknownst to her, Stephens had a criminal record dating back to 2006, when he was convicted of downloading indecent images of children. Since that conviction, he had violated the conditions of his registration on six separate occasions, demonstrating a pattern of disregard for the legal restrictions placed upon him. Despite previous penalties, including serving time in prison, Stephens continued to breach the rules, which ultimately led to his latest incarceration.

Authorities became aware of his move after a routine police check. Officers traced him after he was listed as a named driver on the woman’s insurance policy, which prompted further investigation. When police arrived at his new address, Stephens answered the door. His response confirmed his presence, but he failed to notify the authorities of his change of address as required by law.

During the court proceedings at Exeter Crown Court, Recorder Mr. John Williams sentenced Stephens to eight months in prison. The judge emphasized the repeated nature of his non-compliance, stating, “There have been numerous occasions when you have not done what you are supposed to do. The only way to sort it out is to comply with the requirements.”

Prosecutor Miss Anita Noerr outlined the details of the case, noting that Stephens had moved to Holsworthy in 2014 and was legally obliged to inform police of any change of address. Despite multiple attempts by officers to contact him in October, including visits to his home and attempts to reach him by phone and text, there was no response. The police then contacted the mother of the household, who was unaware of Stephens’ full criminal history and his notification obligations. She was only given minimal information about his previous convictions, which she had no reason to suspect involved such serious breaches.

It was revealed that Stephens’ previous breaches occurred in Newquay and Surrey, and he had served two separate prison sentences for his violations. His history underscores the ongoing risks associated with individuals who fail to adhere to registration conditions, especially when they move into unsuspecting communities. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and strict enforcement of laws designed to protect the public from known offenders.