Kenan Kelly

Kenan Kelly, a 19-year-old member of a notorious Coventry gang, has been sentenced for his role in the human trafficking, rape, and sexual assault of two young girls. The gang's activities, centred around grooming via social media, exposed the victims to dangerous environments filled with drugs and alcohol, culminating in repeated sexual violence.

During the six-week trial at Leamington Justice Centre, evidence revealed how Kelly and his co-defendants lured the girls with offers of gifts and trips, only to transport them to secluded spots for abuse. The Coventry Observer reported on 27 January 2017 that Kelly was convicted of one count of human trafficking, one of sexual assault, two counts of rape, and an additional charge of possession of class A drugs with intent to supply.

Kelly was sentenced to a total of 10 years in prison: nine years for the sexual offences and trafficking, plus one year for the drug charge. He will be on the Sex Offender Register for life. An NSPCC spokesperson praised the victims' bravery, stating, “In speaking out and bringing their abusers to justice these brave girls have stopped this manipulative group from potentially committing further offences.” The case is part of a larger investigation by West Midlands Police into child sexual exploitation networks.

• Grooming began online and escalated to physical coercion.
• Drugs played a significant role in facilitating the assaults.
• The sentences aim to deter similar predatory behaviour in the community.