By Lucy Caulkett-
A man from Romford Man has been Jailed for Sexual Activity with Child in Essex
Tyrese Smith,(pictured) a 20-year-old resident of Grove Road, Romford, has been sentenced to four years and eight months in a young offenders’ institution for engaging in sexual activity with a child in Essex.
The sentencing, which includes a two-year-plus period on licence upon release, follows Smith’s admission of guilt to three counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child.
The case against Smith began after Essex Police received reports of concerning sexual activity between Smith and a child in the Tilbury area in 2023. This investigation was initiated following reports that Smith had violated bail conditions imposed by the Metropolitan Police.
Officers swiftly intervened, ensuring the safety of the victim by implementing necessary safeguards. Smith was apprehended on November 27 last year, shortly after he was overheard expressing fear of imprisonment for his actions, fleeing the victim’s address just hours before his arrest.
During police interviews, Smith remained silent on all questions posed to him. However, he later confessed to all charges during proceedings at Basildon Crown Court on February 28.
In addition to his custodial sentence, Smith has been issued with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and requirements as a Registered Sex Offender.
These measures aim to monitor his use of electronic devices and prohibit contact with children. Furthermore, a permanent restraining order has been imposed, prohibiting any contact with the victim.
Detective Constable Matthew Edson of Essex Police emphasized the gravity of Smith’s actions, describing him as having “groomed, exploited, and took advantage of a child for his own sexual gratification.” Edson commended the court’s decision to hand down an extended sentence, acknowledging the profound and enduring impact of Smith’s actions on the victim.
Edson also expressed gratitude towards the victim for their resilience throughout the legal process, as well as their family for their unwavering support.
He assured the public of the availability of support for victims of sexual offenses, regardless of age, through specialist teams and partner organizations.
The sentencing of Tyrese Smith serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such reprehensible behavior and reaffirms the importance of robust measures to protect children from harm.