BILLERICAY MAN ROBERT PRIOR CAUGHT IN SHOCKING CHILD SPYING AND IMAGE OFFENSES

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Billericay, Robert Prior, aged 43, has admitted to engaging in highly inappropriate and illegal activities involving children. The allegations against Prior include secretly installing a miniature camera on a set of keys, which he concealed within a keyring, with the intent to secretly observe children as they changed in a swimming pool's changing room.

These illicit acts took place on two separate occasions, once in 2017 and again in 2018, at the same swimming facility in Billericay. The court was informed that Prior’s actions were calculated and premeditated, with the camera being discreetly placed to capture children in vulnerable moments. The court documents also revealed that Prior had admitted to creating more than a dozen indecent images of children, including one classified as Category A, which is considered the most severe form of such material. Additionally, he confessed to publishing an obscene article online, further demonstrating his disturbing pattern of behavior.

During the proceedings at Basildon Crown Court, Prior appeared dressed in a black coat and grey shirt, maintaining a somber demeanor throughout the hearing. He spoke quietly when confirming his identity and pleaded guilty to six charges. These charges included three counts of making indecent images of children, with the images spanning categories A, B, and C, totaling 17 images. He also admitted to attempting to create indecent images through the use of the hidden cameras in the changing room, and to publishing an obscene article online.

The court heard that these offenses occurred within Billericay and the Greater London area during 2017 and 2018, although specific locations within these areas were not detailed in the charges. The prosecution highlighted that Prior’s actions stemmed from a dark imagination, but emphasized that he had not acted upon his urges physically. It was also noted that he had received support from his family, which may have played a role in his behavior.

Judge John Lodge addressed Prior directly, describing the case as “difficult and troubling.” He stated that he would not pass sentence immediately, as he required additional information to determine an appropriate punishment. The judge made it clear that Prior would remain on bail until the sentencing hearing scheduled for January 6 of the following year. The judge also warned that the adjournment should not be interpreted as a sign of leniency, and that Prior’s future sentence could involve imprisonment due to the serious nature of his crimes.

As the case stands, the court’s decision underscores the gravity of the offenses committed by Robert Prior, and the community awaits the upcoming sentencing, which could result in a significant prison term for the Billericay resident.