ALAN PERKINS FROM RAYLEIGH JAILED FOR ABUSING GIRLS IN BASILDON

In September 2008, Alan Perkins, aged 60 and residing in Rayleigh, was sentenced to six years in prison for sexually abusing five young girls. The victims, aged between ten and 14 at the time, had to testify against Perkins, who was convicted after a trial last month. He was found guilty of 12 counts of indecency with a child and seven counts of indecent assault, all committed between 1976 and 1979.

Some victims were also offered cash to perform sex acts on Perkins. One girl was even assaulted while sitting in a car on Leigh Road.

During the sentencing at Basildon Crown Court, Judge Overbury addressed Perkins, stating: “It is something that lives with all the complainants and will live with them for the rest of their lives.

“I have read the victims' personal statements, and it is clear the impact of what you did, although in some cases, it is a distant memory.

“Your approach to these girls was planned. None of the offences can be described as opportunistic or spontaneous.

“You tested the water with these young girls to see if they might be susceptible to your sexual advances and when you had the opportunity to touch them or get them to touch you, you did so.”

As part of his sentence, Perkins was banned from working with children and was issued a sexual offences prevention order. The order permanently prohibits him from living at a residence where anyone under 16 is present, seeking or being in contact with convicted sex offenders, or communicating with anyone under 16.

The order also states that Perkins, of Sheridan Close, Rayleigh, must not be alone with a child under 16 unless a parent or guardian is present, cannot attend clubs with children under 16, and must consent to police monitoring officers visiting his home.

In addition, Perkins is required to register as a sex offender for life.