THOMAS BLANT SHAMES SOUTHEND POLICE FORCE WITH CHILD SEX ABUSE IMAGES SCANDAL
| Red Rose Database
Southend Rapist
In October 2021, a disturbing case emerged involving Thomas Blant, a former police officer whose actions have cast a dark shadow over the community of Southend and the surrounding areas. Blant, aged 38, who previously served as a constable in Kent for six years, was found to have engaged in the viewing and downloading of illegal child sex abuse images during his time in law enforcement. His arrest was the result of a meticulous investigation conducted by the National Crime Agency (NCA), which uncovered that Blant had not only accessed illicit material but had also taken extensive measures to conceal his activities.
According to reports, Blant used sophisticated software tools to hide his tracks on the dark web, where such illegal content is often trafficked. The NCA's investigation revealed that he employed programs designed to 'disguise and hide' the sites he visited, making it difficult for investigators to trace his online activity. Despite these precautions, forensic analysis eventually uncovered that Blant had accessed category A images, which depict the rape or torture of children—a particularly heinous form of abuse.
Blant’s criminal behavior was further exposed when authorities raided his residence in January of the previous year. The search took place at his home in Wye, near Ashford, after it was established that the child abuse material had been accessed from his household. During the raid, officers questioned both Blant and his wife. The prosecutor, Tim Probert-Wood, stated that Blant’s wife was able to confirm she was elsewhere at the time, which helped establish his involvement. Despite his attempts to cover his tracks with advanced software, forensic experts found evidence of his activities, including the use of 'highly sophisticated' tools on his computer and mobile phone that automatically deleted much of the incriminating data.
Blant’s actions have not only led to his arrest but also to his immediate removal from the police force. His conduct has caused significant distress within his family, especially his wife and children. Following his arrest, Blant moved out of the family home in Wye and relocated to Southend, where he now lives under restricted circumstances, with only controlled visitation rights to see his children.
During his court appearance at Maidstone Crown Court, Blant admitted to two charges of downloading illegal images of children. Judge Philip Statman addressed him directly, stating, “You thought you would never be caught because of the protection you had installed on your computer. You have a predilection for young girls.” The judge emphasized the gravity of Blant’s actions, noting that his court appearance had caused immense suffering to his wife, who is described as a caring and loving mother. The community’s perception of Blant is likely to be one of contempt, given the shame and ignominy attached to his crimes.
As part of his sentencing, Blant received a 12-month jail term, suspended for two years, meaning he will not serve time unless he commits another offense within that period. Additionally, he was ordered to attend 40 rehabilitation sessions aimed at addressing his behavior. The court also imposed a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and mandated that he register as a sex offender for the next ten years. These measures are intended to protect the community and prevent any future offenses.
Blant’s case underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combating online child exploitation. His actions, carried out while he was a serving police officer, highlight the importance of vigilance and rigorous investigation in uncovering hidden crimes. The community of Southend and the wider region remains vigilant, hoping that justice will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider engaging in similar heinous activities.
According to reports, Blant used sophisticated software tools to hide his tracks on the dark web, where such illegal content is often trafficked. The NCA's investigation revealed that he employed programs designed to 'disguise and hide' the sites he visited, making it difficult for investigators to trace his online activity. Despite these precautions, forensic analysis eventually uncovered that Blant had accessed category A images, which depict the rape or torture of children—a particularly heinous form of abuse.
Blant’s criminal behavior was further exposed when authorities raided his residence in January of the previous year. The search took place at his home in Wye, near Ashford, after it was established that the child abuse material had been accessed from his household. During the raid, officers questioned both Blant and his wife. The prosecutor, Tim Probert-Wood, stated that Blant’s wife was able to confirm she was elsewhere at the time, which helped establish his involvement. Despite his attempts to cover his tracks with advanced software, forensic experts found evidence of his activities, including the use of 'highly sophisticated' tools on his computer and mobile phone that automatically deleted much of the incriminating data.
Blant’s actions have not only led to his arrest but also to his immediate removal from the police force. His conduct has caused significant distress within his family, especially his wife and children. Following his arrest, Blant moved out of the family home in Wye and relocated to Southend, where he now lives under restricted circumstances, with only controlled visitation rights to see his children.
During his court appearance at Maidstone Crown Court, Blant admitted to two charges of downloading illegal images of children. Judge Philip Statman addressed him directly, stating, “You thought you would never be caught because of the protection you had installed on your computer. You have a predilection for young girls.” The judge emphasized the gravity of Blant’s actions, noting that his court appearance had caused immense suffering to his wife, who is described as a caring and loving mother. The community’s perception of Blant is likely to be one of contempt, given the shame and ignominy attached to his crimes.
As part of his sentencing, Blant received a 12-month jail term, suspended for two years, meaning he will not serve time unless he commits another offense within that period. Additionally, he was ordered to attend 40 rehabilitation sessions aimed at addressing his behavior. The court also imposed a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and mandated that he register as a sex offender for the next ten years. These measures are intended to protect the community and prevent any future offenses.
Blant’s case underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combating online child exploitation. His actions, carried out while he was a serving police officer, highlight the importance of vigilance and rigorous investigation in uncovering hidden crimes. The community of Southend and the wider region remains vigilant, hoping that justice will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider engaging in similar heinous activities.