A 56-YEAR-old man who sexually abused a child in New Ash Green during the 1980s has been locked up for three years.

Kevin Hunt, who lives in Maidstone, denied six counts of indecent assault against a child at Maidstone Crown Court but was found guilty following a trial.

The offences, which took place between 1980 and 1989, came to light when Hunt’s victim came forward last year.

On sentencing, Judge Martin Joy described Hunt’s behaviour as “a disgraceful course of conduct.”

He went on to praise the bravery of the victim, saying Hunt made her go through an “utterly traumatic experience.”

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Naomi Moore from the Kent Police public protection unit said: “This case highlights the importance of reporting sexual abuse, no matter how long ago it occurred.

“In this case, the bravery of the victim in having the courage to come forward has helped jail a man for a significant period of time.

“I would urge anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse and not reported it, or anyone who suspects abuse to be taking place, to report it to police and to be reassured that we will investigate it thoroughly and sensitively.”

Hunt was jailed on Friday (June 29) and was also made the subject of a sexual offences prevention order.

He must also sign the sex offenders register for 10 years.