SAMUEL SHAW FROM WESTCLIFF SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON YOUNG GIRL IN BASILDON

In a case that has shocked the local community, Samuel Shaw, a 69-year-old resident of Westcliff, was sentenced to two years in prison for sexually assaulting a nine-year-old girl in her own bedroom. The incident, which took place between September 22, 2006, and October 2, 2007, had initially seen Shaw deny any involvement in the abuse during the early stages of the investigation.

It was only during his trial at Basildon Crown Court last month that Shaw admitted to two charges of sexual assault on a child under the age of 13. The court proceedings revealed the extent of the allegations, which involved the victim being assaulted in her private space, causing significant distress to her and her family.

Judge Michael Brooke QC, presiding over the case, delivered the sentence and also issued a lifelong ban preventing Shaw from working with children in any capacity. The judge emphasized the emotional toll the abuse had taken on the young girl, noting that the victim's statement indicated ongoing stress and the need for prescribed medication. The judge remarked, “I have read the victim impact statement and it does seem she remains stressed and indeed has been prescribed medication for stress. Clearly, it has had a disruptive and distressing effect on the family as a whole.”

While acknowledging that Shaw had spared the victim and other witnesses the ordeal of testifying in court, Judge Brooke expressed skepticism about Shaw’s claim that he derived no sexual gratification from the acts. The court did not accept this assertion, considering the nature of the charges and evidence presented.

During the hearing, Shaw’s defense lawyer, Stephen Rose, conveyed that Shaw was remorseful for his actions and had even attempted to take his own life. Rose also highlighted the suffering endured by Shaw’s family, mentioning the posters that had been placed around Southend and other areas, which publicly identified Shaw and caused additional distress.

As part of his sentence, Shaw will be registered as a sex offender for the next ten years, a measure intended to monitor and prevent any further offenses. The case has left a lasting impact on the community, raising concerns about child safety and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals from harm.