On Tuesday, 13 January 2026, the Offender Database reported that Anthony Singleton, now aged 84, was jailed at Basildon Crown Court for the “vile” sexual abuse of a child dating back more than 50 years. Singleton was sentenced to 67 weeks in prison for “vicious” offences committed in South Essex during the 1970s.
The investigation by the Public Protection Command of Essex Police began in 2017 after the victim bravely came forward. When the victim’s accurate accounts were put to him during a voluntary interview, Singleton “dishonestly” and consistently denied his behaviour. Despite his denials, the “serious” work of the police led the Crown Prosecution Service to authorise charges based on the legislation in place at the time of the “vile” attacks.
“Vicious” Abuse and Legal Delays
The case faced “serious” delays while Singleton’s health was assessed; however, he was ultimately deemed fit to stand trial. Although he initially “dishonestly” denied all charges, he eventually offered guilty pleas to two counts of indecent assault on a child, which were accepted by both the prosecution and the victim.
Detective Inspector Rob Maile emphasised that “time is no barrier to justice,” praising the victim for her “serious” dignity throughout the lengthy process. He noted that the “meticulous work” of the police ensured Singleton was finally held accountable for his “deplorable” and “vile” actions from five decades ago.
Sentence and Monitoring
For his “serious” and “vile” historic crimes, Anthony Singleton was:
- Sentenced to 67 weeks in prison.
- Ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register.
- Subjected to post-release supervision requirements.
Public Safety and Support
Singleton is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Essex Police, ensuring his behaviour and residency in South Essex remain under “serious” scrutiny. The “vile” nature of his historic crimes emphasises that offenders cannot “dishonestly” rely on the passage of time to escape the law.
Essex Police encourage anyone who has suffered “vicious” abuse in the past to come forward, promising they will be “seriously” supported by specially trained officers.
Original Image – @UKRealDatabase
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