ARLANZO SHERWOOD CONVICTED IN BASILDON FOR CHILD SEXUAL OFFENCES AND VOYEURISM

Arlanzo Sherwood, a 46-year-old man from Basildon, has been found guilty of multiple serious sexual offences involving a minor, following a comprehensive nine-day trial held at Basildon Crown Court. The court proceedings revealed the gravity of the allegations and the lengthy investigation that preceded the conviction.

During the trial, the jury convicted Sherwood on two counts of assault of a girl by penetration, a charge that involves non-consensual sexual penetration of a minor. Additionally, he was found guilty of one count of sexual activity with a child, which pertains to engaging in sexual acts with a minor under the age of consent. The court, however, acquitted him on two other counts of assault by penetration and one count of sexual activity with a child, indicating that the evidence was insufficient to prove those particular charges beyond a reasonable doubt.

The investigation into Sherwood’s actions spanned over two and a half years. Throughout this period, Sherwood either refused to comment or outright denied the allegations made against him. The case was brought to court in October 2021, after authorities gathered enough evidence to proceed with charges. The victim, a woman now in her twenties, bravely took the stand to recount her traumatic experiences. She detailed the abuse she endured at Sherwood’s hands, describing how she kept her suffering a secret for years.

Her courage in speaking out prompted her to confide in a friend first, and later her mother. Her mother’s reaction was one of horror and concern, leading her to confront Sherwood directly. The allegations were subsequently reported to the police, initiating the legal process that culminated in his conviction.

On Thursday, June 26, at the same Basildon Crown Court, Sherwood was sentenced for his crimes. He was handed an overall prison term of 11 years for the assault charges, with the sentences to run concurrently. In addition, he received an eight-year sentence for the sexual activity with a child offence and an 18-month sentence for voyeurism, both of which will also run concurrently with the other sentences. The court also imposed a lifelong order requiring Sherwood to register as a sex offender and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the need for ongoing supervision and restrictions.

Sherwood’s residence at the time of sentencing was listed as Clayburn Circle, Basildon. The court’s decision underscores the serious nature of his offences and the impact on the victim, as well as the community’s commitment to justice and safeguarding vulnerable individuals from such predatory behavior.