Man charged with multiple serious offences following Southend investigation
37-year-old faces charges after alleged offences spanning 2015–2019
Last updated 15th Apr 2026
A man has been charged as part of an investigation into sexual offences.
It's after three people were reported as victims of violent and sexual offences in Southend between 2015 and 2019.
It led to an investigation being launched and liaison with Crown Prosecution Service partners.
Charges against Ricardo Hamilton were then authorised, and he was circulated as wanted.
The 37-year-old, of no current fixed abode, was arrested in London on Monday 13 April and taken to an Essex custody suite.
He has now been charged with:
- Six counts of rape
- Four counts of GBH
- Six counts of assault
- Two counts of false imprisonment; and
- One count of engaging in controlling and/or coercive behaviour
He is due to appear in Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court today, Wednesday 15 April.
Detective Inspector Lydia George, who is leading this investigation, said:
“Key to this investigation has been the bravery of those people who have come forward and trusted us with their reports.
“It has taken extensive work from many officers and staff to reach this significant position today.
“And that work will not stop as the case progresses through the court system.”