Kent Rapist Jailed for 20 Sex Attacks

A rapist has been jailed for five years after admitting 20 non-recent sexual offences. Gregory Hayes, 33, of Ram Lane in Hothfield abused a child between 2001 and 2005. The victim came forward and reported Hayes in 2015 at which time he was arrested and charged with numerous offences including rape, sexual assault and gross indecency. He was sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court on Wednesday 9 May 2018. Investigating officer Detective Constable Gemma Keeley said: ‘The victim in this case was understandably traumatised by what had happened and I’d like to thank her for being brave in coming forward many years later. There is no doubt these violations will stay with her for a very long time. ‘Nobody should suffer like she has and I hope other victims of this type of abuse have the confidence to come forward safe in the knowledge they will be treated with the utmost care and understanding. ‘Rest assured that whilst investigations like this can be very long and complex we will do everything we can to seek justice.’