CRAIG HADEN FROM BRIGHTLINGSEA CONVICTED OF SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON BOY AT CHELMSFORD CROWN COURT

In a recent court case held at Chelmsford Crown Court, Craig Haden, a 24-year-old man from Brightlingsea, was found guilty of multiple sexual offenses involving a young boy. The charges against Haden included three counts of gross indecency with a child under the age of 14, marking a serious breach of trust and a grave violation of the child's innocence.

Haden had consistently denied any involvement or that the incidents had ever occurred, maintaining his innocence throughout the trial. However, after a thorough examination of the evidence and testimonies presented, the jury reached a guilty verdict on all three charges yesterday, confirming his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Following the verdict, Judge Charles Gratwicke ordered a pre-sentencing report to be prepared by the probation service, which is standard procedure in cases involving sexual offenses against minors. The judge announced that sentencing would be deferred until June 8, allowing the report to be completed and considered before determining the appropriate punishment.

During the court proceedings, Haden was remanded in custody, indicating that he would remain in detention until the sentencing date. The case has garnered significant attention due to the serious nature of the crimes and the impact on the victim and the community of Brightlingsea. The court's decision underscores the legal system's commitment to addressing and punishing such heinous acts.