COLCHESTER MAN SENTENCED TO PRISON FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN SHOP

Richard Mills, aged 39, of Winnock Road in Colchester, was involved in a sexual assault incident in which he targeted a young woman while she was shopping in Culver Square, Colchester. According to the report, Mills approached and assaulted the girl inside a store before immediately leaving the scene. The three girls who witnessed the incident promptly reported it to store security, who utilized CCTV footage to identify Mills. A still image of the suspect was circulated among officers, leading to Mills' identification and subsequent arrest. Mills admitted to the offense during police interview, specifically admitting to the sexual assault through touching. On October 14, Mills pleaded guilty in Colchester Magistrates' Court and was remanded into custody. Ultimately, he was sentenced on December 12 to 16 months of imprisonment at Ipswich Crown Court. Mills will also be under strict supervision upon release as part of the management of sexual and violent offenders (MOSOVO). Detective Constable Mark Harrington stated, "Mills’ extremely concerning behaviour will not be tolerated. These young girls – and specifically the victim – should be able to go shopping on a Saturday afternoon in safety. I am encouraged by the sentence given to Mills, and he will be monitored incredibly closely when he returns to the community. I truly hope this conviction and sentence help the young girl, her friends, and her family to move forward."