CHRISTOPHER DAY LOUTTON SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED AT SNARESBROOK CROWN COURT

In August 2007, Christopher Day, a squadron leader affiliated with the Wanstead and Woodford Air Training Corps (ATC), was sentenced to two years in prison for a disturbing sexual assault involving a 15-year-old boy. The incident took place during an outdoor expedition, where Day, who resided on Barrington Green in Loughton, exploited his position of authority over the young cadet.

Supporters and members of the public gathered in the courtroom, many of whom watched in shock and disbelief as the sentence was handed down. The courtroom was packed, and the emotional atmosphere was palpable as Day, appearing visibly wounded and distressed, hurriedly left the dock following the judge's decision. He briefly disappeared from public view before being brought back into the courtroom, where he was ordered to sign the sex offenders' register for a period of ten years.

Judge Sasha Wass delivered a stern condemnation of Day’s actions, stating, "You were the commanding officer and you manipulated events so that you shared a bed. You abused your position of trust and, worse still, you exploited the power you held over the young cadet." The judge emphasized the gravity of the betrayal, highlighting that Day’s misconduct left the victim confused and traumatized, robbing him of a carefree childhood.

The case against Day was initiated after the victim confronted him in September of the previous year. During this confrontation, the young boy secretly recorded Day’s confession, which confirmed the assault. The 48-year-old squadron leader was subsequently arrested and charged. After a nine-day trial held in July, Day was found guilty of indecent assault, leading to his sentencing in August. The court’s decision underscores the serious breach of trust and the lasting impact of the crime on the victim’s life.