A Charing serial rapist has been jailed for 21 years – for a five-year campaign of terror.

Jeremy Smith, 52, was convicted of 14 offences involving attacks on four victims who were subjected to degrading and perverted sex acts.

Now Smith, of Pett Lane, Charing, has been told he faces 21 years in prison – and the judge added another six years to his licence period.

The sentence at Canterbury Crown Court means he will have to serve at least 14 years before he can even be considered for parole – and could face another 13 years on licence.

The investigating officer, Det Sergeant Matt Banks, from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said after the hearing: “Smith is a violent, sexually aggressive and controlling man who over-powered these women and subjected them to horrendous ordeals.

“I am pleased he has been found guilty and this sentence means he will remain in prison – where he belongs – for a very long time.”

The officer added: “The reality is – as the judge herself commented – Smith continues to pose a very real threat to any woman he comes into contact with – but at least this sentence will bring closure to his victims.”

Three victims – who all gave evidence at the trial – sat in the public gallery as Judge Heather Norton told Smith he posed a serious danger to women.

The jury had been told how between 2005 and 2010 he carried out the rapes, attempted rapes, sexual assaults and a physical assault on his adult victims.

“Smith is a violent, sexually aggressive and controlling man who over-powered these women and subjected them to horrendous ordeals" - Det Sgt Matt Banks

Some were pinned to the floor while he slaked his thirst for violent sex – leaving his victims bruised, battered and mentally and sexually abused.

Another victim was sexually assaulted with a wine bottle while others were forced to undergo degrading sex acts.

As he was led away, the judge praised the bravery of the victims for their courage in giving evidence against the vile rapist.

She also praised DS Banks and the investigation team of DC Andrew Jones, investigating officers Leonard Johnston and Richard Collins for “bringing this man to justice in very difficult circumstances. “