KENNETH LETCH FROM ALTHORNE SENTENCED TO SEVEN YEARS FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST BOYS NEAR MALDON

In a case that has shocked the local community, Kenneth Letch, a 68-year-old man from Althorne, was sentenced to seven years in prison following his conviction for a series of serious sexual offences committed against young boys. The sentencing took place at Chelmsford Crown Court, where the judge emphasized the importance of protecting the public from individuals who exploit children for their own depraved purposes.

Over a span of more than two decades, Letch had established a disturbing pattern of grooming and abusing boys aged approximately eight or nine years old. These young victims would often visit the caravan park where Letch resided at Althorne, near Maldon, during holidays. It was within the confines of his caravan that Letch committed the heinous acts, exploiting the trust placed in him by these impressionable children.

The court heard that Letch’s first known victim was just nine years old when he was subjected to his initial indecent assault in 1974. The abuse did not cease but continued over the years, with the victim reaching around 14 years of age before the assaults stopped. During this period, Letch also invited the boy’s friend, who was also around nine, to his caravan, where he committed a series of similar indecent acts. The second boy endured abuse until he was approximately 14, mirroring the pattern of the first victim.

According to prosecutor Craig Rush, all three victims were subjected to nearly identical treatment. The boys were lured into Letch’s caravan under the pretense of friendship and trust. Once inside, Letch would persuade them to perform obscene acts and would indecently assault them, exploiting their innocence and vulnerability. The court was told that these assaults followed a consistent pattern, highlighting Letch’s calculated approach to his crimes.

During the trial, Letch, who resides at Smugglers Club Ground, Althorne, admitted to 14 counts of indecent assault and indecency with children, along with three additional charges of serious sexual assault. His guilty pleas confirmed the disturbing nature of his actions and the extent of his offending.

In delivering the sentence, Mr. Justice Nelson emphasized the gravity of the offences, stating that such breaches of trust are particularly heinous and that Letch remains a significant threat to the community. The judge ordered that Letch be registered on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

Patrick Mullen, representing Letch, offered mitigation by describing him as a lonely man who was uncertain about his own sexuality. Despite this, the court’s primary concern was the safety and protection of children from individuals like Letch, whose actions have caused lasting harm to his victims and community alike.