Man jailed for breaking into home in Halstead with intent to commit sexual offence

A 31-year-old man, convicted of breaking into a home in Halstead with intent to commit a sexual offence, has been sentenced to three years in prison.

Lewis Caruth, of Highland Road, Upper Norwood, was found guilty of trespassing on a premises with intent to commit a sexual offence, following a trial at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday, November 1.

Caruth was also placed on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely and was handed a restraining order for four years.

He had faced three charges, but was acquitted of sexual assault and common assault

The conviction relates to an incident on May 19, at approximately 8am, when Caruth broke into an address in Halstead, belonging to a woman known to him, who was alerted to his presence by a friend staying at her home.

Investigating officer DC Gavin Tuck, from Chelmsford’s domestic abuse investigations team, said: “Caruth turned up at the address uninvited and let himself in before startling a friend of the victim, who saw him walking around the house.

“I would like to thank the victim, witness and her family for their support throughout this case.

“Caruth has continued to deny the offence, but he was found guilty and has been sent to prison.”

The victim, who did not wish to be identified, added: “I wish to add my thanks to the officer in the case, the police and the independent sexual violence advisor service, who have supported me throughout.

“If you are a victim of domestic violence or a sexual offence, or both, there is fantastic help and support available for you.”