WILLIAM HARRIS SHOCKS SOUTHEND AND WICKFORD WITH SEX OFFENSES ON GIRLS UNDER 14

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Southend and Wickford, William Harris, aged 32, was convicted of serious sexual offenses involving two young girls. The incidents spanned several years and involved indecent assaults and gross indecency, leaving a trail of trauma and heartbreak.

Harris’s troubling revelations began when he confided in church leaders at Rochford Community Church, openly admitting, "I am a sex offender." His confession stunned the church community and prompted immediate advice from the church’s pastor, who urged Harris to report his actions to the police. Harris, displaying a sense of responsibility, suggested that the church inform law enforcement authorities about his misconduct and even planned to arrange a meeting with the police to discuss his crimes.

Subsequently, Harris cooperated fully with detectives, providing a detailed and candid account of his inappropriate conduct. He admitted to molesting two sisters, whose mother he had befriended some time prior to the offenses. The court heard that the abuse had occurred over a prolonged period, with one of the victims, an 11-year-old girl at the time, beginning to be targeted by Harris when she was just a child. The girl, now 13, reportedly has no memory of the assaults, which complicates the emotional aftermath of the case.

One particularly disturbing incident involved Harris standing in the girl’s bedroom and playing with her pet hamster, an event that woke her from her sleep. The other victim, her sister, was also assaulted while she was asleep, including an incident where she was on the lounge settee with her newborn baby when Harris indecently touched her. These acts of abuse have left deep scars on the victims and their families.

During the court proceedings at Basildon Crown Court, Harris pleaded guilty to one count of gross indecency and six counts of indecent assault. The prosecution, led by Jonathan Ellis, highlighted that Harris might have avoided detection if he had not voluntarily reported his misconduct to his church. Harris, who has no prior criminal record, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for his crimes.

Harris’s defense lawyer, Ashley Thain, emphasized his remorse and shame, noting that he had been undergoing sex counseling sessions costing £25 each. Thain stated that Harris was willing to continue therapy even if the court decided on a custodial sentence. She also mentioned that Harris, who now resides in West Hanningfield near Wickford, had sought forgiveness from his victims and was eager to prevent them from reliving their trauma in court. Harris’s estranged wife has reportedly promised to support him through this difficult time.

In sentencing, Judge Philip Clegg acknowledged the severity of Harris’s actions but also recognized the remorse he expressed. The judge remarked that Harris’s decision to come forward and admit his guilt demonstrated courage, especially since the offenses might have remained hidden otherwise. However, the judge made it clear that prison was inevitable, and Harris’s name will be added to the national sex offenders’ register for the next ten years, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions.

Several members of the church community observed the proceedings from the public gallery, visibly affected by the case. The verdict and subsequent registration serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of such crimes on victims and the importance of vigilance within communities.