A man from Romford has been charged after an alleged sexual activity with a child in Essex.

Tyrese Smith, 19, appeared at Southend Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (November 29) and was remanded in custody.

Officers from Essex Police’s Child Abuse Investigations Team launched a probe after they received reports of the crime that took place in Tilbury area.

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They interviewed the child with special support in place, and carried out enquiries that led them to a person of interest on Monday (November 27).

Smith, 19, was arrested by officers from Operational Support Group and has since been charged with three counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child.

He is also said to have breached his bail conditions and will remain in custody until a hearing at Basildon Crown Court on Tuesday (January 2).