STEPHEN BROWN FROM ASHFORD SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON SCHOOLGIRL IN ASHFORD

In a case that has shocked the community of Ashford, a 40-year-old man named Stephen Brown has been sentenced to seven and a half months in prison for the indecent assault of a young girl. The incident took place in Ashford, and the court proceedings revealed disturbing details about Brown's actions and the emotional toll inflicted on his victim.

Judge Timothy Nash presided over the case at Canterbury Crown Court, where Brown was brought for sentencing following his conviction after a trial held in January. The judge emphasized that, although the physical aspect of the offence was considered at the lower end of the severity scale, the emotional damage caused to the victim was a significant concern. As part of his sentence, Brown will be required to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years.

During the sentencing, Judge Nash pointed out that Brown had refused to admit to his wrongdoing, which complicated efforts to address the harm caused. The judge also highlighted that the victim continues to suffer from profound emotional difficulties as a direct result of Brown's actions. The court noted that Brown had been warned twice by a close friend about his inappropriate behavior towards young girls, yet he disregarded this advice. The judge remarked that Brown's conduct could be seen as grooming, given his position of trust and the breach of that trust.

Judge Nash expressed disappointment that Brown did not show remorse, stating that he had hoped an acknowledgment of the offence might have allowed for a more rehabilitative approach through the probation service. Unfortunately, Brown's attitude during the trial and sentencing indicated otherwise, and this prevented the court from considering alternative measures.

Evidence presented during the trial included testimony from a neighbor, John Sayer, who observed Brown wrestling with young girls and described Brown's hands as 'going everywhere.' Sayer also testified that he had warned Brown multiple times about his over-familiarity with young girls. Despite these warnings, Brown denied receiving any such warnings and insisted that the allegations made by the girl were fabricated.

The victim, a 14-year-old schoolgirl, reported that in September 2003, she had been assaulted by Brown at his residence. The Crown prosecutor described how Brown engaged in some horseplay with the girl, pulling her around, and then touched her in various places on her body. Brown also suggested they go upstairs, implying a sexual encounter. The girl was left upset and distressed after the incident. The court heard that the discussion between Brown and the girl also involved whether she had ever had sex with another man, which added to her emotional distress.

Brown's defense lawyer, Katherine Farrelly, stated that Brown's family had continued to support him throughout the legal process. She also mentioned that Brown had found prison life challenging and that his family had suffered as a result of his incarceration. The court's decision reflects the seriousness with which such offences are regarded, especially considering the breach of trust and the ongoing emotional impact on the victim.