PETER MASTERSON FROM HORNCHURCH AND JAYWICK ESCAPES JAIL AFTER PLEA IN SEX OFFENDER CASES

In a series of serious legal developments, Peter Masterson, a man with connections to both Hornchurch and Jaywick, has been at the center of multiple criminal proceedings related to his conduct involving minors and violations of court orders.

Masterson, aged 54 and residing on Meadow Way in Jaywick, was initially sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court for inappropriate behavior concerning children. His case drew significant attention due to the nature of his offenses and the subsequent legal restrictions imposed upon him. As part of his sentence, he was subjected to a strict sexual harm prevention order, which prohibited him from using computer chatrooms under pseudonyms and mandated that his online activity be monitored to prevent contact with minors.

Despite these restrictions, Masterson was found to have breached the order in November, leading to further legal action. His breaches included failing to adhere to the rehabilitation activity requirements, violating his curfew, and participating in the Thames Valley sex offenders’ treatment programme, which is recognized for its comprehensive approach to offender rehabilitation.

In a related case from May 2014, Masterson, then 51 and living in Hornchurch, was involved in a disturbing incident where he offered a 13-year-old girl £1,000 to engage in sexual activity. The girl was in a park opposite a McDonald's restaurant in Hornchurch when Masterson, who had been monitoring her via her Instagram account, posted lewd comments on a photograph of her in a bikini. He then made the shocking offer, claiming he had seen her around town before and was willing to pay her for sex.

The girl’s mother discovered the comments on August 31 and promptly contacted the police. Masterson, who had been caring for his ailing mother for many years without any carer’s allowance, was arrested and admitted to the police all allegations made against him. During the court proceedings, Judge Sarah Paneth expressed her concern over the nature of his comments and his interest in young girls, emphasizing the disturbing implications of his online behavior. She acknowledged that Masterson did not intend to meet the girl but noted that his interest in minors was a significant concern.

Despite the gravity of his actions, Masterson was sentenced to nine months in prison, but the sentence was suspended for two years. His legal troubles were compounded by personal tragedy when his mother passed away while he was in custody, preventing him from attending her funeral, which caused him considerable distress. The court also ordered him to undergo a year of supervision and remain under a Sexual Offences Prevention Order for the next decade.

Throughout these proceedings, Masterson faced serious allegations and legal restrictions, but the court’s decision to suspend his prison sentence reflects the complex considerations involved in his case, including his efforts to seek treatment and the circumstances surrounding his personal life.