A man who was previously convicted of multiple sex offences against a minor has been jailed for 17 years.

An investigation into Brett Baker, 33, was launched in January 2021, following reports regarding concerns for a child in the Thurrock district. Baker was arrested and released on bail whilst officers carried out multiple enquiries, including conducting sensitive interviews with the young victim. The interviews were supported by independent support agencies.

The victim said Baker had sexually abused her on multiple occasions. Alongside these enquiries, forensic specialists located key evidence. Baker, of River View, in Grays, was charged with two counts of rape, three counts of assault by penetration and one count of sexual assault. He denied all charges but was found guilty by a jury of all counts on May 28 following a week-long trial at Basildon Crown Court.

Baker appeared at the same court on Friday (October 4) when he was given a 17-year sentence, made up of 16 years in custody and one-year on licence. He will be on the sex offender register for life and was also made the subject of a sexual harm prevention order for an indefinite period.

"This was a complex investigation where our priorities were to safeguard the victim and gather the evidence needed to pursue a criminal conviction against Baker," said Investigating officer Det Con Jeffery Wainman. "It’s difficult to comprehend the suffering that Baker has caused the young victim. Her bravery in speaking with us and outlining Baker’s behaviour should never be underestimated.

"I would like to commend the officers in this case, who have spent hours analysing distressing evidence to secure this conviction against Baker. Our child abuse investigation team continue to work closely with partners including social care to protect vulnerable children and investigate child abuse."