Chafford Hundred: Man jailed for 12 years for child sex offences

A man has been jailed for 12 years for a number of child sexual offences following a long and detailed Essex Police investigation.

We started our enquiries in October 2020 after receiving allegations of sexual assault involving two young girls.

One of the girls had confided in a friend. The friend’s dad then contacted social services to report their concerns.

Jay Hexter, of Edward Close, Chafford Hundred, was arrested and interviewed. He answered no comment throughout his initial interview and was released while enquiries continued.

During subsequent interviews he denied the allegations against him.

He was charged with 15 offences and his trial was heard at Basildon Crown Court. On Wednesday 16 April, following an eight-day trial, the jury returned unanimous guilty verdicts in relation to:

• Three counts of sexual assault of a child
• Three counts of sexual activity with a child
• Assault of a child under 13, by penetration
• Causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

He was acquitted in relation to the other seven offences.

On Friday 2 May at the same court the 38-year-old was sentenced by Judge Graham for terms ranging from six months to 12 years, all to run concurrently.

He will be subject to a restraining order and will be on the sex offenders register for life.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Emily Hulme said:

“I want to pay tribute to the survivors in this case.
“They reported the abuse and then were incredibly patient throughout this painstaking investigation.
“I hope this sentence gives them some closure as they rebuild their lives.
“Hexter’s abuse was horrific and he has rightly received a lengthy prison sentence.
“We have an unwavering commitment to tackling violence against women and girls and will thoroughly investigate all allegations reported to us.”

Synergy Essex offers free, confidential help to anyone in Essex affected by rape, sexual abuse, or sexual violence - whether it happened recently or in the past.

It’s made up of three expert services:

• Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse
• Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service
• Southend-on-Sea Rape Crisis

You don’t need to report anything to the police to get support. You can contact Synergy Essex directly, or ask someone you trust, like a friend, family member or professional, to refer you.

Support is available for all ages and includes:

• Counselling (in person, online or by phone).
• Emotional and practical help.
• Guidance from Independent Sexual Violence Advisers if you choose to report the crime.

Their First Contact team can talk you through your options and help you get started.

Find out more on the Synergy Essex website.