KIERAN CHAMPION AND SHOCKING RAPE IN CANTERBURY

A man named Kieran Champion has been sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of committing a brutal and sustained sexual assault and rape in Canterbury. His crime was committed after he had initially met his victim at a nightclub, an encounter that ended with alarming consequences for the young woman involved.

According to court proceedings, Champion, aged 28 and residing on Merchants Way in Canterbury, developed a predatory interest in the woman during their brief acquaintance at a venue in Margate. He then orchestrated a plan to lure her from that location to a nearby property in Canterbury, where he could isolate her away from others. This manipulation left her vulnerable and unable to escape from the threatening situation he had created.

During the trial at Canterbury Crown Court, it emerged that Champion had intentionally intoxicated his victim by giving her whisky and coke, which impaired her judgment and increased her vulnerability. Once she was under the influence, Champion proceeded to commit sexual assault, culminating in acts of rape that she desperately tried to resist. She reportedly cried out for him to stop, but instead, Champion responded with lurid and derisory remarks designed to demean and intimidate her further.

Fortunately, fate played a role in her rescue: a police officer happened to arrive outside the premises by chance while she was in distress. This unexpected intervention allowed her to escape from her attacker. The police swiftly arrested Champion later that same day. During their investigation, he chose not to speak, giving a 'no comment' interview when questioned about the incident.

Forensic evidence collected from the scene ultimately contradicted Champion’s claims of innocence. The forensic findings, combined with the testimony from the victim, led to a conviction on charges of rape and sexual assault. The jury, after considering all evidence, delivered a unanimous verdict of guilt. The court noted the severity of the attack and the terror inflicted upon the woman.

Throughout the proceedings, reactions in the courtroom were visible; Champion, who was supported by his mother and friends from the public gallery, was observed slumping and weeping in the dock following the judge’s verdict.

Defence lawyer Sharmila Salvi argued that her client was suffering from significant anxiety and depression at the time of his arrest. She explained that Champion had been off work due to these mental health issues and was scheduled to begin therapy before his conviction. His condition was highlighted as part of his mitigation.

Prosecutor Dominic Connolly detailed how Champion’s actions exploited the woman’s vulnerability as she searched for a safe place to stay. He emphasized that she was seeking refuge, unaware of her location or the man’s residence, and was under the influence of alcohol with limited options to escape without his intervention.

Addressing the court, Recorder Stuart Trimmer QC emphasized the gravity of the offence, stating, 'Custody must be the result—custody must be the result.' The judge penalized Champion with a six-year imprisonment, a lifetime requirement to notify authorities of his whereabouts, and a ten-year restraining order to prevent any contact with the victim.

Ms. Salvi, offering some context to her client’s background, noted that Champion had 'worked all his life,' supported his unwell mother, and had plans to start a business studies course. Despite these mitigating factors, the court underscored the heinous nature of his crime, which brought widespread condemnation and a reminder of the importance of justice for survivors of sexual violence in Canterbury.