DEAN BRIGGS FROM SOUTHEND CAUGHT AGAIN TRYING TO MEET UNDERAGE GIRL
In a disturbing case that highlights the ongoing risks posed by individuals with a history of offending, Dean Briggs, a 50-year-old resident of Southend, was once again caught attempting to engage in inappropriate communication with a minor.The sequence of events underscores the persistent danger that offenders like Briggs pose to the community.
Briggs, who resides on Tickfield Avenue in Southend, had previously been involved in similar offences.
Last year, he was given a suspended sentence along with a sexual harm prevention order after being found guilty of sending explicit messages to online profiles that appeared to be underage girls.
Despite these legal restrictions, Briggs continued to pursue contact with minors.
The latest incident unfolded between February 23 and March 2 of this year.
During this period, Briggs engaged in messaging with a profile that he believed belonged to a 13-year-old girl.
When the profile owner disclosed her age, Briggs responded with alarming comments, stating, “13 is cool, I really want a young girlfriend.” This exchange clearly indicated his intent to pursue a sexual relationship with a minor, prompting authorities to take decisive action.
Following the continued sexual messaging, police decided to intervene.
Briggs was arrested on March 11, and a search of his home was conducted.
During the search, officers seized his phones, which were found to have their message histories deliberately erased—a violation of his court order that explicitly banned such actions.
The police investigation confirmed that Briggs had attempted to engage in sexual communication with a child, a serious offence that warranted legal proceedings.
At Basildon Crown Court, Briggs admitted to attempting to communicate sexually with a minor.
The court, presided over by Recorder Leslie Cuthbert, sentenced him to a three-year community order.
Additionally, Briggs was ordered to undergo 60 days of rehabilitation, emphasizing the court’s focus on both punishment and preventing future offending.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to protect vulnerable minors from predatory individuals in communities like Southend.
