Kevin Kerjean, a 31-year-old French national, has been charged with the rape and murder of a two-year-old girl in Chertsey, Surrey. Police were called to her home in a block of flats at around 5:40pm on Thursday following concerns for her safety. They discovered the girl's body and found Kerjean with serious injuries. He was arrested and taken to hospital, and will be taken into custody following treatment.
Charges and Court Appearance
Kerjean was also charged with rape of a child under 13 and sexual assault of a child under 13. The French national, born in the Central African Republic, appeared at Guildford Magistrates' Court on Saturday and was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear at Guildford Crown Court on Monday.
Immigration Status
The Home Office confirmed that Kerjean legally entered the UK and applied for European Union Settled Status in December 2020. He was granted leave to remain in the UK in March 2021 and received an extension allowing him to stay until March 2031.
Police Investigation
A Surrey police spokesperson said: 'We are aware of commentary online detailing that the incidents of Thursday took place in an asylum seeker HMO (Houses in Multiple Occupation). This is incorrect. At this time, it is understood that those involved were known to each other and officers believe it took place within a family setting.'
Detective Chief Superintendent Jon Groenen stated: 'This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the child’s family, as well as all those who knew her. Our teams are working hard to build a picture of what happened, and a significant police presence will remain in Pyrcroft Road over the coming days.'
Community Response
Bouquets of flowers were left at the entrance to Syward Place, a flat complex on the corner of Pycroft Road and Bell Bridge Road. The force added: 'At this stage, we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.'
