VERNON PICKETT SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS IN PRISON IN BASILDON FOR OFFENSES AGAINST CHILDREN

In June 2021, Vernon Pickett, aged 52 and residing in Waldringfield, Basildon, was convicted of serious sexual offences against a young girl, including an attempted rape. Pickett forcibly made the girl perform a sexual act on him, sexually assaulted her, and possessed thousands of images of children.

During his appearance at Basildon Crown Court on Friday, Pickett admitted to multiple sexual offences. The court was informed that police found approximately 3,000 images of young girls on his electronic devices.

Prosecutor Diana Pigot explained that indecent images were located on Pickett’s phone, along with internet searches related to images of young girls. She stated, “He was initially arrested in connection with malicious communication and had two phones but refused to provide the passcodes. When police checked the phones, they discovered 28 videos depicting offences against a girl, leading to his arrest on July 27 last year.”

Ms. Pigot highlighted that Pickett had prior convictions for dishonesty, violence, and breaching a non-molestation order.

Vernon Pickett was sentenced to 12 years in prison, with an additional six years on licence, meaning he will be closely monitored by authorities. He will be eligible for parole after serving nine years.

In sentencing, Judge Samantha Leigh told Pickett, “You admitted all but two of the offences, and these will remain on your record.” The court was also informed that over 300 films were recovered from his devices.

The judge remarked, “I have reviewed the two most serious offences, and during police interviews, you completely denied the incidents.” She added, “There is also evidence of grooming behaviour, and in my view, there is a significant risk of serious harm to the public.”