PATRICK CHIDLOW'S SHOCKING SEX OFFENCES IN GRAVESEND LEAD TO FIVE-YEAR JAIL SENTENCE

In August 2014, a disturbing case involving a young man from Gravesend culminated in his being sentenced to a five-year prison term for a series of serious sexual offences. Patrick Chidlow, aged 19 at the time, pleaded guilty to a total of 16 charges that included blackmail, possession and distribution of indecent images of children, rape, and inciting or causing a minor to engage in sexual activity.

The criminal proceedings took place at Maidstone Crown Court, where the gravity of Chidlow’s actions was laid bare. His crimes came to public attention after one of his victims, a teenage boy, bravely stepped forward to report the abuse. The victim revealed that Chidlow had coerced him into sending indecent images of himself via social media platforms and messaging services. These images were then exploited by Chidlow to blackmail the boy into performing sexual acts.

As the investigation unfolded, detectives uncovered further disturbing details. They learned that other minors, including a boy and a girl, had also been targeted by Chidlow, who had made similar advances towards them. All of his victims were teenagers, and Chidlow’s modus operandi involved persuading them to send explicit images of themselves. He then threatened to distribute these images on social media if they refused to comply with his demands.

The police arrested Chidlow on January 8. Following his arrest, he was released on bail while authorities continued their inquiries to gather additional evidence. During this period, law enforcement officials seized his computer, which was found to contain indecent images of other children, further implicating him in the abuse.

Detective Constable Roger Harris of Kent Police expressed his sentiments regarding the case, stating, “While I am pleased justice has been served for the victims, there are no winners today. Chidlow’s actions have had a profound and lasting impact on his victims and their families, who are still trying to recover from their ordeal. His behaviour has not only deeply affected others’ lives but has also led to his own downfall. Forcing anyone into sending indecent images or engaging in sexual acts is something this force will not tolerate. We are committed to tirelessly pursuing and bringing perpetrators of such abuse to justice.”

In addition to his prison sentence, Chidlow was issued a sexual offences prevention order, which will remain in effect indefinitely. This order aims to restrict his activities and prevent further harm, serving as a measure to protect the community from potential future offences.