PELE CLINCH FROM STAPLEHURST AND TUNBRIDGE WELLS SENTENCED FOR RAPE AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

In a harrowing case that has shocked the communities of Staplehurst and Tunbridge Wells, Pele Clinch, aged 33, was convicted of multiple serious offenses including two counts of rape, six charges of creating indecent images of children, and possession of a disturbing three-hour video depicting the sexual abuse of teenage girls. The sentencing took place at Maidstone Crown Court, where the victim of Clinch’s heinous acts delivered a powerful impact statement that was read aloud during the proceedings.

Clinch, who resides in Greenhill, Staplehurst, had vehemently denied all the allegations, asserting his innocence throughout the trial. Despite his protests, a jury found him guilty in September after considering compelling evidence presented by the prosecution. The court’s judgment was delivered by Judge David Griffith-Jones QC, who sentenced Clinch to 11 years in prison. The judge emphasized that the jury was not deceived and that the evidence against Clinch was overwhelming.

Judge Griffith-Jones remarked on the profound trauma inflicted upon the victim, describing the impact as “all too apparent” and referencing her heart-rending statement read in court. He highlighted the severity of the assaults, noting that the victim’s account revealed the extent of her suffering and helplessness following the attacks.

The case was further complicated by the fact that Clinch maintained his innocence, claiming that he had not downloaded the indecent images or the disturbing video. He explained to police that he had replaced his computer with a new one two weeks prior to his arrest and had purchased the MP3 player at a boot fair, asserting that he had never used it because it lacked a charger.

Clinch was arrested in March of the previous year at his residence on Greggs Wood Road in Tunbridge Wells. During the investigation, authorities discovered the illicit images and the video clip on his computer and MP3 player. Despite the evidence, Clinch was acquitted of six charges related to sexual activity with a child and one count of indecent assault. A third charge of rape was left on file, meaning it was not pursued further at this stage.

The court ordered that Clinch will serve half of his 11-year sentence, deducting the 101 days he has already spent on remand. Upon release, he will be required to register as a sex offender indefinitely and will be subject to a sexual offences prevention order, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community from further harm.