Essex paedo Patrick Wakefield locked up for 10 years after vile child abuse trial
Essex Police launched a probe in December 2020 after a report of child sexual abuse. The specialist Child Abuse Investigation Team (CAIT) swooped on Patrick Wakefield, 51, of Great Wakering, arresting him that same month.
Dark secrets revealed from digital devices
During the investigation, detectives uncovered worrying evidence pointing to abuse of another child. Wakefield was arrested again at home in March 2021 and hit with 13 chilling sexual offence charges dating back to 2013 up to 2019.
Wakefield denies charges but jury hits hard
The predator initially denied all charges at Basildon Crown Court and forced both victims to testify during the eight-day trial that started last January.
But the jury wasn’t having it. Wakefield was found guilty on every count. On Tuesday 14 February, he was sentenced to a decade behind bars for raping one girl and three years for inciting a child under 13 to sexual activity without penetration.
Detective praises victims’ bravery – warns others to speak up
“Patrick Wakefield has been rightly jailed for his despicable actions,” said DC James Fowler of CAIT. “He was completely abhorrent to his victims. They showed incredible courage coming forward and giving evidence, helping to stop him from hurting more children.
“He’s now a Registered Sex Offender and barred from contact with children. We urge any other abuse victims to come forward; our specialist teams are ready to support you.”
Wakefield’s full sentence breakdown
- 10 years for rape
- 3 years for inciting child under 13 to sexual activity
- Additional concurrent sentences ranging from 1 to 10 years for multiple sexual assaults
- Also jailed for 3 months each on charges of taking and making indecent photos, possession of extreme pornography, and possessing ammunition
Wakefield’s conviction brings justice to his victims and a warning to others caught up in abuse: speak out and you will be heard.
