DEAN PECK SENTENCED IN BASILDON FOR CHILD SEXUAL OFFENCES AND ASSAULT

In a case that has deeply affected the community of Basildon, Dean Peck, a 38-year-old man, faced serious allegations related to child sexual offences and assault. Although he initially claimed he was fleeing from danger and vehemently denied any involvement in the sexual assault of a young girl, the truth emerged nearly four years later. In September 2024, Peck appeared before Basildon Crown Court where he admitted to two charges of child sexual offences, marking a significant development in the ongoing investigation.

The incident in question took place several years prior, but it was only in recent proceedings that Peck acknowledged his guilt. On Wednesday, February 26, this year, the court handed down a sentence of more than five years in prison. Additionally, Peck was ordered to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life, a measure that underscores the severity of his crimes and the state's commitment to public safety.

The impact of this case extends beyond the courtroom, as the mother of the young girl who was victimized spoke out about the profound and lasting effects of the assault. She described the incident as a traumatic event that has left her daughter scarred emotionally and psychologically. "This was a really traumatic incident and the impact will stay with her for life," she said. "She lost all her confidence and trust in people. She went through something no little girl should ever have to endure."

Expressing relief at the outcome, she added, "We're pleased he has been jailed. For the first time since this happened, she wanted to go out for a little bit with her friends." The mother also took the opportunity to thank the police officers and support staff involved in the case. "I do want to thank the officers in this case who have been really kind and supportive throughout the investigation. They made her feel comfortable to talk about what she had been through, and her counsellor was amazing and always on the end of the phone to answer our questions. I hope no other family has to go through what we have, but please know that if you do, the police and other services will support you throughout."

Peck's legal troubles began when he was charged in January 2023 with attempted rape of a girl under 13, inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity (non-penetrative), and assaulting a girl under 13 by touching. He denied the attempted rape charge but was convicted on the other counts. The court sentenced him to 62 months in prison for these offences and imposed an indefinite restraining order to prevent any contact with the victims. Furthermore, Peck admitted possession of a bladed article related to a separate incident, which resulted in an additional six months of imprisonment, to be served consecutively with his other sentences.

Detective Constable Jane Grieve, who led the investigation, praised the resilience of the young victim. "I want to commend the incredible strength and courage of the survivor throughout this difficult investigation," she said. "I hope the sentence Peck has received will help her as she moves forward with her life. Nobody should have to go through something like this, but I hope that anyone else who has been a victim of sexual offences feels empowered to come forward and report them to us."