Stephen Flynn

Stephen Flynn, a 53-year-old man formerly from Lincolnshire, was convicted and sentenced at Basildon Crown Court for committing multiple sexual offences against a young girl in South Essex. The offences occurred over several months in 2016 and included seven counts of child sexual abuse and one count of child cruelty.

During a four-day trial in April 2022, Flynn was found guilty after attempting to manipulate and disrupt the court proceedings. Judge Samantha Leigh, presiding over the case, described Flynn as a 'violent, nasty and controlling' sexual predator. She highlighted his refusal to supply a defence case statement and his failure to attend the sentencing via video link from prison, interpreting these actions as deliberate efforts to control the trial and evade justice.

In her sentencing remarks, Judge Leigh stated: 'You sought control towards the questions being asked. You refused to supply a defence case statement and refused to attend today before a video link could be established [from prison].' She further added: 'Everything you said in court was a lie, in my view. You were in my view ready to say anything that would get you off the hook.' Flynn was ultimately jailed for 17 years, including an extended licence period, ensuring he would serve at least 12 years behind bars. Additionally, he received a 20-year restraining order against his victim.

The victim, praised by Judge Leigh as the 'most clear and precise' she had seen give evidence, demonstrated remarkable bravery throughout the process. Detective Sergeant Vicky De'ath from the police's child abuse investigation team commended the courage of those who came forward, noting that their testimony not only supported the victim but also enhanced community safety following Flynn's conviction. The case was handled by Essex Police, as indicated by the regional reporting in the ITV Anglia news article published on 2 September 2022.