London man imprisoned for sexual assaults on St Leonards boy

Eric Cox, 57, retired, of Chesterfield Gardens, London, SE10, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on Tuesday (26 January) having been found guilty by a unanimous jury verdict earlier the same day after a trial.

The offences against the boy took place in St Leonards and at Cox’s address in London.

He will also be a registered sex offender for life.

He was convicted of two counts of rape, two of sexual assault, one of inciting sexual activity, all between 2011 and 2015 on the boy who was then aged between 9 and 13.

Cox was also convicted of dangerous driving. This related to an incident in which he tried to drive away from police officers when they approached his car to arrest him in South Heighton near Newhaven in August 2015.

Detective Constable Nicola Westgate said; “Cox befriended the boy over a period of time and systematically abused him. Eventually the boy summoned up the courage to come forward.

“The victim was extremely vulnerable and was given the assistance of an intermediary at court, giving evidence via a videolink. He was supported by his family members and showed great courage when faced with that difficult situation.

“There is no simple advice for victims but we do encourage people, particularly young people, who find themselves in these distressing situations just to start by telling someone. If not a family member, then just tell someone independent.

“As this case shows, if we are told, then action will be taken.”

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