KEITH COX BILLERICAY CHILD RAPIST SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS IN PRISON

In a harrowing case that spanned over three decades, Keith Cox, a 61-year-old man from Billericay, was convicted of multiple heinous crimes involving the sexual abuse of four young girls. The offences took place at various locations including Pitsea, Noak Bridge, Billericay itself, and Waltham Cross, highlighting the extensive reach of his predatory behavior.

Keith Cox was found guilty by a jury at Basildon Crown Court on 15 separate counts related to sexual offences committed between 1975 and 2007. His conviction includes seven counts of indecent assault, three counts of assault by penetration of a child under 13, two counts of rape, and two counts of attempted rape. Additionally, he was convicted of committing gross indecency with a child. The severity and variety of charges reflect the disturbing nature of his crimes and the long duration over which they occurred.

During the trial, the four victims bravely provided evidence detailing the sickening abuse they endured at the hands of Cox. Their testimonies painted a disturbing picture of exploitation and manipulation, with some victims only revealing their experiences after years of silence. One woman recounted how she only learned about her friend's abuse when she spoke with staff from a children’s charity. She described how her friend, who was between 13 and 15 years old at the time, would often visit her home in Noak Bridge, appearing “sad and confused” on one occasion. The victim refused to disclose what was wrong directly but asked her to speak to a representative from ChildLine via a phone booth, which is when she discovered that her friend had been sexually abused by Cox.

The second victim, who was between seven and eleven years old at the time, told police that Cox had assaulted her. The court heard that Cox, who resided on Woburn Place in Billericay, had also moved on to a third victim in the 1990s, when she was just four years old. The fourth woman, who was first attacked at the age of eight, revealed that the abuse continued for four years. These women only came forward with their allegations last August, highlighting the long-lasting impact of Cox’s actions and the delay in reporting such crimes.

Despite the overwhelming evidence, Cox was acquitted of one charge—causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity and indecency with a child. Nevertheless, the court’s verdict resulted in a significant prison sentence, with Cox being sentenced to 18 years behind bars for his crimes. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and the courage of victims in coming forward to seek justice against such predatory individuals.