PETER CHITICKS SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS FOR ABDUCTION AND ABUSE IN WESTCLIFF-ON-SEA

A convicted paedophile, Peter Chitticks, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after systematically raping and sexually abusing a young girl over a period spanning several years in the seaside town of Westcliff-On-Sea.

Chitticks, aged 51 and residing on Hornby Close in Westcliff, targeted the young victim starting in 1997 when she was merely nine years old. Over the course of six years, he subjected her to an appalling series of sexual assaults, which included multiple counts of rape, indecency, and assault. The extent of his crimes only came to public knowledge after the victim—whose identity remains protected by law—summoned the courage to report the abuse to authorities last year.

The case was heard at Basildon Crown Court, where Deputy Circuit Judge Gareth Davies delivered a harsh sentence, condemning Chitticks for treating the young girl as his personal "sex toy." The judge emphasized the severity of the crimes, indicating that Chitticks would need to serve at least half of his 15-year sentence before potentially being eligible for parole. This decision reflects the gravity with which the judicial system views such offences and highlights the need for long-term incarceration for such predatory behavior.

Post-sentencing, Det Con Rob Smallcombe, the investigating officer, expressed relief and praise for the victim's bravery. He stated, "This was a protracted inquiry and one which was very traumatic for the victim. She not only had to hear evidence in court, but had to recall the events from her childhood herself as part of the prosecution case. She shares our delight that Peter Chitticks will be behind bars for a very long time."

Chitticks, who worked as a warehouse employee, denied all allegations throughout the proceedings but was ultimately found guilty last week of seven counts of indecency with a child, four counts of rape, and two counts of indecent assault. Remarkably, he had no previous criminal convictions prior to this case.

As part of his sentence, Chitticks will also remain on the sex offenders' register for the remainder of his life, a measure designed to monitor and restrict his activities post-release, to protect the community from any potential risk he might pose in the future.

The case underscores the importance of vigilance and courage among victims, as well as the justice system's commitment to prosecuting those who commit such heinous acts against children in Westcliff-On-Sea and beyond.