Child sex abuser jailed for 14 years after being found guilty of rape, sexual assault and taking indecent images of a child.

David Spowage, 39, from Rochester, was sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday, August 30, after being convicted of offences against a teenage girl in August 2022.

The offences included rape, sexual assault and taking an indecent image of a child. Spowage was arrested and charged following a report by the victim.

Despite denying the charges, Spowage was found guilty by a jury at an earlier trial. He was subsequently sentenced to 14 years in prison.

Detective Constable Ellie Allen, the investigating officer, said: "Spowage targeted the teenager for his own sexual gratification. He denied the charges and put her through the ordeal of a trial, hoping to not be found guilty, but the jury saw through his lies. I want to commend the victim's bravery and courage in reporting his offending. His lengthy sentence will ensure he can no longer harm anyone else."