Ex-RAF man’s sex abuse lies

A former RAF officer who sexually abused a young girl and condemned her to a life of misery has been jailed for 12 years.

Graeme Masterman had “exemplary” military service before becoming a health and safety officer and was described as a person of integrity.

But the 55-year-old, of Ashford Road, Maidstone, had a dark side which involved molesting his victim while drunk and angry.

Masterman, who reached the rank of Flight Sergeant during his 23 years in the RAF, continues to deny the offences and aims to prove he is innocent, his lawyer said.

But a judge declared he had been convicted by a jury on “clear and very compelling evidence” of a prolonged course of conduct.

He commended a teacher who gave great assistance to the girl and made a High Sheriff’s award of £250 to her.

The judge also praised police officer Emma Crombie and intermediary Kate Man who assisted the victim during the trial in October.

Judge Martin Joy said of the girl’s evidence: “It is clear – absolutely plain as a pike staff – she was telling the truth.

“Despite her difficulties about speaking about these matters, her evidence went painstakingly before the jury. Your defence was her evidence was invented – lies.”

Masterman denied four offences of indecent assault and three of sexual assault, dating back almost 13 years, but was convicted.

When arrested, Masterman admitted he drank more than he should but denied any wrongdoing. Masterman’s name will appear on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely and he will be barred from working with children and vulnerable adults. The family of a 28- year- old woman found dead at a Maidstone pub on Christmas Eve are appealing for help paying for her funeral.

Kayleigh Caesar was discovered at The Dragoon in Sandling Road, where she lived.

The coroner heard the care nurse’s cause of death was suspension and earlier police had confirmed the tragedy was not being treated as suspicious.

The crowdfunding page is seeking £2,500 to give Ms Caesar the best possible send-off and to raise awareness about depression.