Jair Klein

Jair Klein, a 55-year-old man from Margate, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for a series of historic sexual offences committed against two young boys. The crimes, which took place between 2010 and 2014, occurred in multiple locations including Britain, the USA, and France, highlighting the predatory nature of Klein's actions across borders.

The investigation began in 2019 when two men came forward to the Metropolitan Police, detailing the sexual abuse they had suffered as children at the hands of Klein. At the time, the victims were aged between 10 and 15. Klein had abused the trust placed in him by offering gifts and taking the boys on days out, such as trips to a swimming pool where he would watch them undress. Once alone with them, he carried out the sexual assaults. The offences initially started in Barnet, UK, but continued abroad as Klein followed the victims.

A joint investigation was launched by the Metropolitan Police in collaboration with authorities from the USA, France, and Israel to address the international aspects of the case. Klein, residing at Majestic Court in Margate at the time of his arrest, was charged on 11 June 2022 with five counts of sexual activity with a child. These included three counts involving children aged 10 or 11, one count with a child aged 13 or 14, and one with a child aged 14 or 15. He was found not guilty on two additional similar counts.

• The trial took place at Harrow Crown Court, where Klein was found guilty on 19 July 2023.
• Sentencing occurred at the Old Bailey in London last week, resulting in a 10-year custodial sentence.
• In addition to the prison term, Klein will serve a further six years on licence upon release, reflecting the assessed danger he poses to the public.
• A Sexual Harm Prevention Order was imposed for an indeterminate period to restrict his future behaviour.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers of the Metropolitan Police commended the bravery of the victims, stating: "Klein abused the trust that had been placed in him by two young children. Whilst the offending started in Barnet, he followed them abroad where he continued to offend. I would like to praise the bravery of these men in coming forward and telling officers about what happened." He also thanked the international authorities for their assistance and noted the victims' strength in testifying despite Klein's not guilty plea.

The father of one victim expressed gratitude to the authorities, saying: "This conviction could never have happened without the dedicated professionalism and determination of the Metropolitan Police and the CPS, who were there every step of the way to ensure justice, treating us with consideration and dignity. It has been a difficult journey, but well worth it, and we are delighted with the result." The case underscores the importance of victims speaking out, leading to Klein's conviction and removal from society for a significant period.