Library image
A sex offender from the Faversham area of Kent has been given a 10-year prison sentence for committing multiple crimes against children. An investigation was commenced after Kent Police received allegations that Robert Gunner had targeted victims between 2014 and 2017. He was arrested in June 2022 and officers seized his laptop computer and mobile phone.
Analysis of the content found 226 illegal images of children of which 27 were of the most serious category. A further eight extreme pornographic images were also recovered.
Gunner was charged and pleaded guilty to causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, making indecent photographs of children, causing a child to watch a sexual act and possessing an extreme pornographic image. The 42-year-old was sentenced on Thursday 28 November 2024 at Maidstone Crown Court to seven years’ imprisonment.
The judge stated he was a dangerous offender who posed a serious risk to children. On his release, he will remain on licence for an extended period of three years. Gunner was also made subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 20 years and was added to the sex offenders’ register for life.
Detective Sergeant Emma Crombie said:
‘Gunner subjected these young children to some of the most horrific offences, leaving them with traumatic memories which will affect them for a considerable time.
‘I wish to commend the victims for their courage in reporting the vile actions of this criminal to Kent Police. Their assistance throughout the investigation and court process was vital in ensuring he was held accountable for his despicable behaviour and can no longer harm any other vulnerable children.
‘His sentence is reflective of the gravity of his offending, and I’m pleased he is now behind bars where he can no longer harm anyone else.’