MARK STOPHER FROM SITTINGBOURNE CAUGHT IN SHOCKING CHILD SEX PLOT NEAR MAIDSTONE EAST

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the local community, Mark Stopher, a 43-year-old resident of Sittingbourne, was recently convicted and sentenced for attempting to engage in a sexual encounter with a minor. The incident unfolded outside Maidstone East station and was captured live on Facebook, highlighting the dangers and complexities surrounding online child protection efforts.

On January 14 of this year, members of an online anti-paedophile protection team set up a sting operation in Station Road, Maidstone. Their goal was to catch individuals attempting to meet minors for illicit purposes. During this operation, they confronted Stopher, who had been in contact with what he believed to be a young girl. The confrontation was recorded and streamed live, revealing the tense exchange that lasted approximately one hour.

According to reports, Stopher had arranged to meet the supposed minor for sexual activity, demonstrating a clear intent to commit a serious offence. The situation escalated when police officers arrived at the scene, leading to his immediate arrest. At the time of his apprehension, Stopher was residing on Victoria Road, Chatham, but his previous address was in Sittingbourne.

Following his arrest, Stopher was taken into custody and later appeared before Maidstone Crown Court. During the hearing, he admitted to charges of arranging and facilitating a child sex offence, a serious criminal matter that drew significant attention. Judge Adele Williams sentenced him to four years in prison, emphasizing the gravity of his actions.

In addition to his prison sentence, the court ordered that Stopher's name be added to the sex offenders’ register indefinitely. A sexual harm prevention order was also issued, which will remain in effect for an indefinite period. This order prohibits him from working with children or vulnerable adults, aiming to prevent any future harm.

Authorities have issued warnings to the public, cautioning against taking justice into their own hands during sting operations. They emphasize the importance of allowing law enforcement professionals to handle such sensitive and potentially dangerous situations, to ensure safety and proper legal procedures are followed.

For more details, the incident was documented and can be viewed on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ecpwX7g8BY.