Ricky Anthony Mills

Ricky Anthony Mills, a 47-year-old man from Shoeburyness, Southend-on-Sea, with previous connections to East Dorset, has been jailed for 16 years following his conviction on 15 counts of child sexual offences. The case, heard at Bournemouth Crown Court, concluded with a guilty verdict on Thursday, 19 August, after a nine-day trial. The offences, which involved a victim under the age of 13, occurred between August 2013 and November 2017.

The charges against Mills included five counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, six counts of sexual activity with a child, two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and two counts of causing a child to watch a sexual act. During police interviews, Mills denied all allegations, maintaining that he had never acted in a sexually inappropriate manner towards the victim. Despite his denials, the jury found him guilty on all counts.

Judge Jonathan Fuller QC presided over the sentencing, where Mills remained motionless in the dock as the 16-year prison term was imposed. The court proceedings highlighted the severity of the abuse, which took place over several years in Dorset. Dorset Police's Child Abuse Investigation Team (CAIT) led the investigation, with Detective Constable Leigh Topol praising the victim's bravery in reporting the offences and supporting the inquiry.

The conviction underscores the commitment of Dorset Police to thoroughly investigating reports of child sexual abuse and bringing perpetrators to justice. Mills, who had ties to both East Dorset and his more recent residence in Shoeburyness, now faces a significant period of incarceration for his crimes.