In June 2024, four women and girls were followed by a man in the St Stephen’s area of the city. The man attempted to touch or grab the victims, before, in some cases, being deterred when they shouted at him.

On Wednesday 12 June, two officers were on patrol in the area when they noticed a man following a woman. The man matched the description of the offender given by victims in previous reports from earlier that month and officers quickly stopped and arrested him.

During the investigation, detectives determined that the arrested man, Athian Majak, was the offender for four incidents in June, as well as additional offences in December 2023.

Charges including indecent exposure, sexual touching, and attempted sexual touching were authorised against Majak, of Downs Road, Canterbury, which he admitted at court.

At Canterbury Crown Court the 20-year-old admitted all nine offences and was given a three-year custodial sentence in a youth offenders’ institute on Friday 18 October 2024.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Kieran Kemp said: ‘Athian Majak openly committed criminal acts against women and girls in public, while they were just trying to go about their day. They had not permitted him to approach them and do what he did.

‘His behaviour was predatory towards women and officers immediately recognised the importance of identifying him. The investigation saw officers scrutinising CCTV footage, working with victims and witnesses to gather evidence to ensure that Majak was found and brought before the courts.

‘Tackling violence against women and girls is one of the top priorities for Kent Police and we work hard to ensure our police response is suitable for that of the victims’ needs. We also carry out a range of initiatives such as walk and talk events with members of the public and regular nighttime patrols to spot the signs of predatory behaviour.’

Click here for further information, advice and support relating to Violence Against Women and Girls. This page also includes details on how Kent Police is tackling offences including domestic abuse, stalking, harassment and other forms of violence.

If you have been a victim of violence and wish to report an offence, click here.