DAVID HARRISON FROM CORRINGHAM AND UPMINSTER SENTENCED FOR SEX TEXTS TO CHILD

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Corringham and Upminster, David Harrison, aged 29, has been sentenced for sending inappropriate and sexually explicit text messages to a minor. The incident, which took place in May of the previous year, led to Harrison being convicted of causing or inciting a child under the age of 16 to engage in sexual activity.

Harrison, who at the time was serving as a community support officer, was found guilty at Basildon Crown Court. The court heard that the messages were sent to a young girl on May 19 last year, raising serious concerns about the abuse of trust and the safety of minors in the area. Harrison, who currently resides in Waldegrave Gardens, Upminster, but previously lived on Jefferies Way, Stanford-le-Hope, was scheduled to face trial last month on two additional charges related to similar offences. These charges alleged that he caused or incited a different child under 16 to engage in sexual activity in April 2010, in Corringham.

However, on the day the trial was set to commence, Harrison entered a guilty plea specifically to the charge concerning the text messages. The other two charges were subsequently dropped and will be left on file. The investigation into Harrison’s conduct was initiated by Essex Police after the allegations came to light, leading to his suspension from his role as a police community support officer. Prior to the trial, Harrison resigned from his position, effectively ending his career in law enforcement.

Judge Christopher Mitchell delivered the sentence, ordering Harrison to complete a two-year community order, which includes mandatory supervision and participation in a sex offender treatment programme. Additionally, Harrison is required to sign the sex offenders’ register for a period of seven years, reflecting the seriousness of his actions and the ongoing risk to the community. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and accountability within law enforcement and highlights the devastating impact of online misconduct involving minors.