WILLIAM DOWSETT SENTENCED FOR PREDATORY SEXUAL ASSAULTS IN SITTINGBOURNE AND ROCHESTER

In December 2016, a young man from Sittingbourne faced the consequences of his actions after being convicted of serious sexual offences involving two teenage girls. William Dowsett, aged 19 at the time, was found guilty by a jury of two counts of sexual assault, following incidents that took place in the vicinity of Rochester and Strood.

Despite his denial of the charges, the court heard detailed accounts of his misconduct. Judge Jeremy Carey, presiding over the case, expressed a nuanced view during sentencing. He acknowledged that if the decision were solely based on the defendant’s personal circumstances, he might have been inclined to let Dowsett go free. The judge remarked, "I have no doubt you are now leading a law-abiding and responsible life. You are having a relationship with someone who trusts you. You have good prospects work-wise and a supporting family."

However, Judge Carey emphasized that the purpose of the sentencing was to uphold justice and send a clear message that sexual offences carry serious consequences. The judge stated, "It was only one side of the picture that I considered, and that is the need to punish and deter such behaviour."

Prosecutor Allister Walker outlined the details of the incidents. He explained that Dowsett had picked up one of the victims from Strood station after she and her friend encountered difficulties catching a train. The trio then traveled to Rochester High Street, where a local festival was underway. During this encounter, Dowsett inappropriately grabbed the girl’s bottom. The situation escalated when he later told her he needed “a sex marathon,” and proceeded to put his hands inside her leggings, making her touch his private parts.

The victim reported the incident shortly afterward, but initially, no charges were filed. The case was reopened when a second girl came forward with a similar complaint, prompting further investigation. The court heard that both victims had been subjected to what Judge Carey described as “predatory sexual behaviour,” committed against their will.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Carey sentenced Dowsett to 18 months in youth custody. He emphasized the seriousness of the offences, stating, “This was serious sexual offences and you must now take the consequences.”

As part of his punishment, William Dowsett’s name will be entered onto the sex offenders’ register for a period of ten years. Additionally, he will be legally barred from working with children under 16 or vulnerable adults, reflecting the gravity of his actions and the need to protect others from potential harm.