East Bergholt man jailed for child sex offences as victim speaks out
The 36-year-old was accused of multiple sexual offences against two women.
A woman has bravely spoken out after she and another victim were assaulted by a child sex offender from East Bergholt, who has now been jailed for 12 years.
The two women spoke to Essex Police in 2022 to disclose the historic offences committed by 36-year-old Lloyd Prior.
Prior, of Broom Knoll in East Bergholt, was accused of multiple sexual offences against the two women, who were children at the time of the offences, between 2005 and 2013.
He pleaded not guilty and stood trial at Chelmsford Crown Court on 20 January 2025, and a jury found him guilty of 10 charges – three counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, three counts of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, and two counts of assault of a child under 13 by penetration.
He was sentenced to 12 years in prison at the same court on Wednesday 23 April.
Speaking after the sentencing, one of the women said:
"This has impacted every part of my life.
"I've been left with suicidal thoughts, I've been unable to be alone, and it's affected my relationship with family, friends and anyone romantically.
"Despite all the challenges I am glad I spoke to the police because he has now been sentenced and I can move on living my life the way I want.
"Knowing he is in prison and can't get to me or other children is the most important thing.
"It's been difficult but I'd encourage anyone in the same situation as me to speak to the police for help."
Detective Constable Siobhan Murphy added:
“These two women remained at the centre of this case throughout our investigation – by bravely speaking to us they provided us with accounts and evidence that have ultimately seen Prior jailed.
“His repeat offending, against two different victims over nine years, just reinforces his lack of remorse.
“He pleaded not guilty at trial and subject all those affected to years of even more stress and upset before the jury returned their verdict.
“I’d like to commend both the victims again, and hope that other people in a similar position understand that it doesn’t matter how long ago these crimes were committed – if you speak to us you will be listened to and you will be supported.”