KEITH LONG FROM EGHAM JAILED FOR LEWD ACTS IN FRONT OF GIRLS NEAR EGHAM LEISURE CENTRE

In June 2012, Keith Long, a resident of Warwick Avenue in Egham, was sentenced to a prison term of just over two years following his conviction for a series of disturbing sexual offences committed in and around the town. The sentencing took place at Guildford Crown Court on Wednesday, June 20, where the presiding judge expressed his bewilderment at Long's apparent inability to recognize the gravity of his actions.

Long, aged 49, was handed a sentence of 25 months after being found guilty on multiple counts related to indecent conduct and sexual offences involving young girls. His convictions stemmed from a week-long trial during which jurors learned about his inappropriate behavior in secluded parking areas, including one incident at the Egham Leisure Centre. The court was told that Long had performed indecent acts in front of two different girls on separate occasions and had attempted to kiss one of them, actions that caused significant concern and distress.

The victims, who did not know each other, were subjected to Long’s inappropriate conduct in different instances, highlighting a pattern of predatory behavior. Long was convicted of three counts of sexual activity in the presence of a child, as well as charges of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, attempted sexual assault, and two counts of exposure. Despite these convictions, he was acquitted of two additional charges of sexual activity with a child and assault by penetration, as he had denied all allegations.

During the sentencing, Judge Peter Moss remarked on the oddity of Long’s behavior, noting that most people would recognize such actions as wrong. The judge pointed out that Long seemed unaware of the severity of his conduct, citing that one of the girls did not object at the time but merely sat smoking a cigarette, which the judge found particularly troubling. He described Long’s ideas and actions as “cockamamy,” emphasizing the bizarre nature of his behavior.

Defense lawyer Ed Butler addressed the court, stating that Long had resigned himself to the fact that he would serve time in prison. He also highlighted that Long was well-respected within his community and was considered a charming individual. Mr. Butler mentioned that Long had suffered greatly as a result of the court proceedings and that the publicity surrounding his arrest had led one of the victims to come forward and testify against him. He further argued that Long’s career and reputation had been effectively destroyed.

Judge Moss responded sharply, asserting that the consequences Long faced were entirely of his own making. Following his conviction, Long was placed on the sex offenders’ register and subjected to a sexual offences prevention order (SOPO), which restricts his contact with individuals under the age of 18. The case underscores the serious nature of the offences committed and the judicial system’s stance on protecting minors from such predatory behavior.