Sick paedophile who injected child with drugs before raping her is jailed for 15 years | UK | News

A depraved sex offender injected a child with drugs and raped her multiple times during a horrific campaign of abuse, a court has heard. Lee Balchin, 55, of Kent, who was sentenced to 15 years at Maidstone Crown Court on Monday, also forced his young victim to consume cannabis, suspected ecstasy tablets and alcohol, the sentencing hearing was told.

Balchin preyed on the boy repeatedly between 2000 and 2004. He carried out this exploitation in a variety of locations, including ‘hideouts’ in remote locations. The crimes were first reported to Kent Police in 2018, at which point Balchin was arrested. An investigation revealed that the child was regularly using drugs, including injecting the child with amphetamines. Substances and alcohol sometimes rendered his helpless victim nearly unconscious.

Balchin, of Carnation Close, East Malling, was charged with multiple offenses but denied any wrongdoing.

A lengthy court process led to a trial in August 2025, at which point he was convicted of two rape charges and two additional charges of indecent assault.

Balchin must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before he can be considered for parole.

Detective Constable Lisa Roots said: “Balchin is an extremely dangerous individual who subjected his young victim to a truly harrowing and appalling catalog of abuse.

“It is certainly rare to encounter a situation where a criminal displays such callous depravity.

“He took her to isolated areas where he knew she would not be disturbed and also threatened to kill her.

“The impact of Balchin’s attack is incalculable, but the victim mustered tremendous courage to come forward.

“Their strength helped us bring him to justice, and I hope this sentence will provide some comfort.”