JAY HEXTER

JAY HEXTER OF CHAFFORD HUNDRED JAILED FOR 12 YEARS FOLLOWING ESSEX CHILD SEX OFFENCES

A man from Chafford Hundred, Essex, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after being convicted of multiple child sexual offences, following a lengthy investigation by Essex Police.

The police launched their inquiry in October 2020 after receiving allegations of sexual assault involving two young girls.

One of the girls confided in a friend, whose father then contacted social services to report his concerns.

Jay Hexter, of Edward Close, Chafford Hundred, was detained and questioned.

During his initial interview, he opted to answer with no comment and was subsequently released while investigations continued.

In later interviews, he denied all allegations.

He faced 15 charges, and his trial took place at Basildon Crown Court.

After an eight-day trial concluding on Wednesday, 16 April, the jury unanimously found him guilty of: - Three counts of sexual assault of a child - Three counts of sexual activity with a child - Assault of a child under 13 by penetration - Causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity He was cleared of the remaining seven charges.

On Friday, 2 May, Judge Graham sentenced the 38-year-old Hexter to terms ranging from six months to 12 years, all to run concurrently.

He will also be subject to a restraining order and will be on the sex offenders register for life.