Alex Symeonides, a 20-year-old resident of Westcliff-on-Sea, has been sentenced to four years and eight months in prison after being found guilty of multiple sexual offences and creating indecent images of children. The sentencing took place at Basildon Crown Court on Monday, June 10.
The investigation into Symeonides began in October 2023 when officers from the Police Online Investigation Team (POLIT) received intelligence that he was using an internet connection to view indecent images of children. Acting swiftly, the officers arrested Symeonides and conducted an interview during which he admitted to accessing such images.
Shocking Discoveries
As the investigation progressed, officers discovered a significant number of indecent images on Symeonides’s electronic devices. Additionally, evidence of sexual assault offences came to light. The thorough and detailed forensic work carried out by the Essex Police team revealed the extent of Symeonides’s criminal activities.
Charges and Guilty Plea
Based on the evidence, Symeonides was charged with two counts of rape, one count of sexual assault, and three counts of making indecent photographs of a child. He pleaded guilty to all charges during his court appearance.
Sentencing and Preventive Measures
In addition to his prison sentence, Symeonides was issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and will be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life. Detective Constable Matthew Wright, who led the investigation, emphasised the importance of holding sexual offenders accountable:
“Symeonides is a dangerous offender, and Essex is a safer place with him behind bars. We are committed to protecting people from harm and will leave no stone unturned in our work to secure charges against predatory offenders. Essex is no place to hide for sexual offenders and those who abuse children. I hope this sentence helps those impacted by Symeonides’s crimes on their road to recovery.”
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