Matthew Smith, a former resident of Sittingbourne, Kent, has been sentenced to 31 years in prison for sexually abusing vulnerable children over several years.

Smith's crimes spanned from 2008 to 2020, during which he targeted four victims. The investigation began when one victim disclosed their abuse to a trusted individual and subsequently contacted the police. Further victims were identified as the investigation progressed.

Arrested on March 1, 2020, Smith faced multiple charges, including rape, sexual touching, and sexual communication with a child after online contact with another victim. Despite pleading not guilty at Maidstone Crown Court, he was convicted of 32 indictments following a trial.

On January 24, 2025, Smith, aged 39, received an extended sentence of 31 years. This includes a custodial period of 23 years, with two-thirds mandatory before parole eligibility. Upon release, Smith will serve an additional eight years on license. He is also subject to a sexual harm prevention order and sex offender notification requirements indefinitely.