Locations
Mersey Road, Tonbridge, Kent, TN10
Description
A rapist who attacked his victim in Ashford after they agreed to meet on a date has been jailed.
Adrian Richardson, formerly of Mersey Road in Tonbridge, was found guilty of two sexual offences following a trial at Canterbury Crown Court.
Investigation
Kent Police launched an investigation after Richardson’s victim reported her ordeal to them in May 2023.
The offender and the woman had met online and she later met with him in person, but told him she did not want sex.
Ignoring her wishes, Richardson sexually assaulted her before raping her.
The victim managed to alert a trusted friend and later called the police to report Richardson’s crimes.
Richardson, 46, was arrested and, following an investigation, was charged on 18 April 2024.
Jailed
After pleading not guilty, he was convicted of rape and sexual assault in majority jury verdicts.
On 19 February 2026, Richardson was sentenced at the same court to seven years’ imprisonment. He will be subject to notification requirements of the sex offenders’ register for life.
Detective Sergeant Luke Stainer said:
'Richardson showed no respect for this woman, who had set her boundaries, and subjected her to a sickening ordeal that has had a long-lasting impact. I’m pleased that the offender will spend a significant period behind bars and will be subject to notification requirements for life, providing further protection to safeguard against future victims. I hope it helps the victim in this case to move forward from the horrific experience that she was made to endure.
'Sexual criminals who would prey on women in this way need to understand that no means no, and should expect to be tracked down and made to answer for their actions. Specialist support will be offered to victims who come forward and reports will be fully investigated.'