Stephen Sussams

Stephen Sussams, a 62-year-old resident of Folkestone, Kent, engaged in a disturbing grooming operation targeting a teenage boy via social media platforms. The predatory behaviour began on 4 July 2025, when Sussams initiated contact through a messaging app, initially building rapport by discussing mundane topics to gain the child's trust.

Over the subsequent two weeks, Sussams escalated his communications to sexually explicit content, sending numerous graphic messages via platforms including Snapchat. He repeatedly requested indecent images from the boy and vividly described the sexual acts he intended to perpetrate upon meeting in person. This online grooming culminated in Sussams travelling from his home on Biggins Wood Road with the explicit intention of sexually abusing the teenager.

On 23 July 2025, Kent Police arrested Sussams as he waited at the arranged meeting location, preventing the abuse from occurring. During the arrest, he refused to provide officers with the password to his phone, which contained evidence of his communications. He was charged on the same day with multiple serious offences, including arranging or facilitating the commission of a child sex offence and attempted sexual communication with a child.

The case proceeded to Canterbury Crown Court, where on 12 November 2025, Sussams was sentenced to two-and-a-half years' imprisonment. Upon his release, he will be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and required to register as a sex offender. Detective Constable Jess Meadway of Kent Police commented on the investigation, stating: "This was a thorough and swift investigation, which enabled us to apprehend a dangerous offender quickly. Sussams’ actions were deplorable, and his arrest sends a clear message that Kent Police will pursue offenders relentlessly. We remain committed to ensuring that those who commit such crimes are held fully accountable for their actions." The case underscores the vigilance of Kent Police in protecting children from online predators.