CHRISTAKIS CHRISTODOULOU'S HORRIFIC CRIMES IN DAGENHAM REVEALED

In a deeply disturbing case that has shocked the community of Dagenham, Christakis Christodoulou, a 72-year-old man from Temple Mead, Roydon, has been convicted of heinous crimes involving the sexual abuse of three young girls over a span of more than a decade. The abuse, which took place at his former residence in Dagenham, was carried out while his partner was absent from the home, adding a layer of betrayal and cruelty to the offenses.

According to court proceedings, the abuse occurred between the years 1986 and 1999, with the victims' ages ranging from as young as seven to as old as 15. The case was brought to light after one of the victims courageously came forward in 2012, leading to Christodoulou's arrest. The jury at Snaresbrook Crown Court found him guilty of multiple charges, including three counts of rape, two counts of indecency with a child, and six counts of indecent assault.

During the trial, the court heard harrowing details of the abuse. One victim, who was experiencing difficulties at home, initially viewed Christodoulou’s residence as a safe haven. However, her perception was shattered when she discovered that he had been spying on her while she was in bed. This betrayal culminated in her being raped by Christodoulou, with the abuse continuing until just before her 16th birthday. Another victim, who was younger at the time, was assaulted until she reached secondary school, at which point she felt able to resist him. The third victim, the youngest among them, was only seven or eight when the abuse began, and it persisted until around 1987 or 1988.

Prosecutor Robert Evans described the chilling details, including an incident where one victim saw Christodoulou spying on her in the bath, and another where he sexually assaulted her during a movie night with his partner. The victims' accounts painted a picture of calculated and ongoing abuse, with one victim recalling that Christodoulou told her he loved her, a statement she later understood as manipulation and control.

Throughout the trial, Christodoulou maintained his innocence, denying ever having sexual contact with any of the girls. He claimed he could not understand why they would fabricate such allegations and stated that he had not seen any of the victims since 2000. Despite his denials, the jury found him guilty on all counts, and he was subsequently sentenced to 18 years in prison. Judge David Radford emphasized the profound psychological harm inflicted upon the victims, noting that Christodoulou’s actions caused significant misery and trauma.

In addition to his prison sentence, Christodoulou will be subject to a sexual offences prevention order if released on license. This order will prohibit him from being alone with any girls under the age of 16, aiming to prevent further harm. During the sentencing, Christodoulou looked at his current partner and shook his head in denial as the judge detailed the severity of his crimes.

This case underscores the importance of vigilance and the courage of victims who come forward to seek justice. The community of Dagenham and surrounding areas are reminded of the devastating impact of such crimes and the necessity of safeguarding vulnerable children from predators like Christakis Christodoulou.