ELSEHAM SEX OFFENDER MELVIN BASS SENTENCED TO FIVE YEARS FOR ABUSE AND DRUG POSSESSION

In a case that has shocked the community of Elsenham, Melvin Bass, a 42-year-old motor engineer, was sentenced to a five-year prison term following his conviction on multiple serious charges related to the sexual abuse of a teenage girl. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about Bass's conduct, including his alleged 'open house' policy that allowed young visitors unrestricted access to his home, raising concerns about the safety and vulnerability of minors in his care.

Bass, residing at Glebe End in Elsenham, faced a series of charges at Chelmsford Crown Court. He was found guilty of four counts of indecency with a child, one count of indecent assault, and possession of indecent photographs of a child. However, he was acquitted of one additional charge of indecent assault and three other charges related to taking indecent photographs of a minor. The court also ordered Bass to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life, a measure that underscores the severity of his crimes.

The judge presiding over the case, Christopher Ball QC, expressed his condemnation of Bass's actions, stating, 'You put the victim through the harrowing ordeal of reliving the sexual events.' The trial, which took place last August, was subject to reporting restrictions until the conclusion of a second indictment, which was resolved earlier this week.

In addition to the sexual offences, Bass admitted to possessing 12.7 grams of amphetamine. For this drug-related offence, he received a concurrent six-month sentence, which will run alongside his prison term for the other crimes.

Prosecutor David Wilson highlighted the disturbing nature of Bass's 'open house' policy, describing how he welcomed young visitors into his home without proper supervision. The alleged victim, now 16 years old but between 14 and 15 at the time of the offences, was characterized by Wilson as 'a young and vulnerable girl,' emphasizing the predatory environment Bass created.

During the sentencing hearing, defence counsel Stephen Enright outlined the personal consequences faced by Bass following his convictions. He explained that Bass had lost his partner and his business contacts, had his house repossessed, and was now facing an uncertain and difficult time in prison. The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Elsenham, raising serious concerns about safeguarding and the protection of minors from exploitation and abuse.