We will not tolerate male violence, abuse and misogyny against women and girls in any form

Speaking following the sentencing of Stephen Bear, Jane Gardner, Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner and Chair of the Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Board, said:

“Georgia has been extremely brave throughout this investigation and has trusted our Essex Police officers, who have done great work in handling the case. I cannot pretend to know how hard this must have been for her, but I know that we all care deeply about getting justice for her. “This had been one of the highest profile revenge porn convictions in the UK and I hope cases like this will not only deter people from committing this crime, but also help people come forward and report these offences. “I want to be absolutely clear, in Essex, we will not tolerate male violence, abuse and misogyny against women and girls in any form. "Stamping this out of our communities is a big priority for the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Roger Hirst. "As the Chair of the Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Board, I can tell you that we are continuing to work hard to help survivors and educating perpetrators to change their behaviour. "As well as supporting Essex Police to robustly target offenders and develop stronger investigations that lead to more successful prosecutions.”

Georgia Harrison thanks police after Stephen Bear jailed

“It changed my life. My only option was to go to the police and thank god I did. "Two years of hard work from Essex Police and I really do feel like I’ve got my justice.”

Georgia Harrison, a victim of revenge porn has gallantly spoken about her experiences and thanked the police, on the day her perpetrator has been sentenced to 21 months imprisonment. Stephen Henry Bear, 33 of Bryony Close, Loughton appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court today (3 March) where he was sentenced after being found guilty of voyeurism, disclosing private sexual images without consent and breach of bail conditions. The investigation, which launched in December 2020 received a large amount of interest amongst the media and the public on social media platforms. Read the whole story on the Essex Police website.

Page published on 06/03/2023.