PAUL HARPER FROM FAVERSHAM JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST VULNERABLE TEENAGE GIRL IN KENT

In a case that has shocked the local community of Faversham and the wider Kent area, Paul Harper, aged 49, was sentenced to six years in prison after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offences involving a teenage girl. The crimes took place within the confines of a children’s home, where Harper was employed as a care worker, raising grave concerns about the safety and trust placed in individuals in such sensitive roles.

Harper, a resident of Athol Place in Faversham, was found guilty at Maidstone Crown Court on a Monday in August 2008. The court heard that he committed two counts of sexual activity with a child, along with five additional counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child while occupying a position of trust. These allegations highlight the breach of professional boundaries and the exploitation of a vulnerable young person, which has left a lasting impact on the victim and her family.

Detective Constable John Milham, who led the investigation into Harper’s actions, publicly commented on the case, stating, “Paul Harper presented himself as an upstanding member of the community but in reality he deliberately targeted a young, vulnerable and troubled person. I would like to pay tribute both to the victim of this crime who displayed great courage, prior to and during the trial, and also to the people who supported her.”

Following his conviction, Harper faces strict legal obligations upon his release. He will be required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life and will be subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order for a period of 15 years, restrictions designed to prevent further harm and protect the community.

During sentencing, Judge Charles Macdonald, QC, emphasized Harper’s apparent lack of remorse, stating that the offender had shown “no remorse” for his actions. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of the offences and the need for ongoing monitoring and community safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.