A 55-year-old man from Gravesend has been jailed for 17 years and three months after pleading guilty to multiple child sex offences, including rape and sexual assault.
An investigation by Kent Police was launched into Wayne Hodges, after a young victim came forward to report that he had targeted them. Following his arrest in May 2025, officers examined Hodges’ mobile phone and discovered several indecent images of children.
Hodges appeared at Maidstone Crown Court in March 2026, where he admitted to numerous offences against the child, including rape, sexual assault, and making indecent images.
At his sentencing on Friday 11 September, he was handed the prison term and informed that he will be subject to an extended period of eight years on licence upon becoming eligible for parole. The judge also imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and placed Hodges on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely.
Detective Constable Nick Pebody commended the victim’s immense bravery in disclosing the ordeal and supporting the police investigation, adding that the substantial sentence would hopefully bring some closure while ensuring Hodges is closely monitored upon his eventual release.