Southend: Man sentenced to eighteen years in prison for sexual offences against a child

A man has been sentenced to 18 years in prison, after being found guilty of multiple non-recent sexual offences against a child.

Lee Miles, 51 previously of Studley Road, Forest Gate appeared at Basildon Crown Court on Thursday, 18 April for sentencing after being found guilty of nine sexual offences including four counts of rape of a child under 13.

The sentencing concludes a three-year investigation by Essex Police’s Child Abuse Investigation Team. The investigation was launched in July 2021, when officers received a report which detailed multiple serious sexual assaults against a boy, taking place in Southend over a four-year period.

Miles was arrested in August 2021 and denied all allegations during interview.

Despite his denial, officers were able to charge him with four counts of rape of a child under 13, two counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, two counts of causing a child to watch a sexual act and two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13.

He was remanded into custody and following a week-long trial on at Basildon Crown Court, Miles was found guilty of nine offences. He was found not guilty of one count of causing a child to watch a sexual act.  

In court today, the judge sentenced him to 18 years with an extended four-year license. He was also issued with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a Restraining Order.  

PC Michael Budd, investigating officer in the case said “The victim was just a toddler when he was subjected to this heinous abuse from Miles.

“It’s hard to wrap your head around the crimes that Miles committed but I hope that the victim and their family can move forward knowing that he is behind bars and unable to harm any more children.

“I commend the bravery of the victim and their family. This bravery paired with their patience throughout a three-year investigation has taken a dangerous man off the streets.

“I also commend the early years support worker at Essex County Council, who provided support from the moment of the report as well as those who provided evidence throughout the investigation.”