Colchester Man Hit with Nearly 40 Child Exploitation Charges
A 22-year-old man has been charged with a shocking 39 offences linked to child sexual exploitation following a major Essex Police probe.
Matthew Clarke Arrested in Colchester Sting
Matthew Clarke, from Delamere Road, Colchester, was arrested last November after officers from the Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) Proactive Investigation Team executed a warrant at his home.
Now, Clarke faces an array of serious charges including:
- Sexual assault by penetration
- Sexual assault
- Five counts of inciting a child to engage in penetrative sexual activity
- Ten counts of inciting a child to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity
- Three counts of sexual activity with a child
- Five counts of causing a child to watch a sexual act
- Engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child
- Four counts of sexual communication with a child
- One count of meeting a child following grooming
- Six counts of possessing indecent images of children
- One count of blackmail
He is set to appear at Colchester Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 21 May.
Inside the CSE Proactive Investigation Team
Established earlier this year, the CSE Proactive Investigation Team specialises in tackling the most complex and organised cases of child sexual exploitation in Essex.
The team handles both fresh and older cases where traditional safeguarding methods have failed. Their targets include lone offenders and organised gangs who groom kids online using fake profiles, or by luring them with money and alcohol.
Fighting Back Against Grooming and Exploitation
Essex Police use a mix of reactive investigations from victim reports and proactive intelligence gathering to combat offenders.
Partnerships with children’s charities ensure victims receive tailored support and care plans so they don’t have to face questioning unless they want to.
Speak Up to Protect Children
If you suspect a child is being groomed or exploited, don’t stay silent. Call Essex Police on 101 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
