A 78-year-old man from Medway has been sentenced to 17 years in prison for a series of child sexual abuse offences committed almost 50 years ago.

Alan Vinten, of Otterham Quay Lane, Rainham, Gillingham, was found guilty at Maidstone Crown Court of repeatedly abusing a young girl during the 1970s, starting when the victim was just nine years old.

The abuse, which continued for approximately a year, was reported to Kent Police in November 2021. Following a thorough investigation, Vinten was charged under the Sexual Offences Act 1956 due to the historical nature of the crimes. The charges included indecent assaults and unlawful intercourse with a child.

Conviction and Sentencing

Despite denying all allegations, Vinten was found guilty of all eight charges after a trial. On April 4, 2025, he was sentenced to 17 years’ imprisonment. Vinten must serve at least two-thirds of the sentence before being eligible to apply for parole, and he will also face an additional one-year licence period after release.

Police Praise Survivor’s Courage

Detective Constable Laura Bowness, who led the investigation, praised the survivor’s courage in coming forward after so many years:

“Vinten is a predatory paedophile who subjected his young and vulnerable victim to the most appalling and terrifying campaign of abuse. The victim felt she had nowhere to turn and only in recent years has been able to thankfully summon the strength and courage to give evidence and ensure Vinten has at last faced justice.”

DC Bowness acknowledged the long-lasting impact of the abuse on the survivor’s life, adding:

“The abuse suffered continues to have a profound and deep impact on much of her adult life, but I do hope she can now move forward from this knowing Vinten will be serving a lengthy prison sentence.

Encouraging Other Survivors to Come Forward

DC Bowness also emphasized the importance of reporting abuse, no matter how much time has passed:

“I hope this sentence also encourages others who may have suffered abuse to come forward because it is never too late to report a sexual offence. You will be believed.”

The conviction serves as a stark reminder that justice can be served, even decades after the crime. Kent Police continue to encourage anyone who has experienced historical abuse to report it, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable regardless of when the offences occurred.

Support for Survivors

For those affected by sexual abuse, support services are available. The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC) offers a confidential helpline at 0808 801 0331. Alternatively, survivors can contact Victim Support at 0808 168 9111.

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