A CONVICT has today been sentenced for a sexual assault in South Ockendon more than two decades after the attack took place.
Phil Collins indecently assaulted a 19-year-old woman on May 27 in 1991 and for many years managed to evade justice.
Then on October 10 last year the 53-year-old - known as Philip Treble at the time of the crime - was arrested by detectives from Essex Police's cold case investigation team.
Collins, who is currently serving a prison sentence for other offences, pleaded guilty to indecent assault at Basildon Crown Court earlier today.
He was sentenced to four years to run concurrently with the 13-and-a-half years he is already serving.
Investigating officer Detective Inspector Jo Williams said: "The victim is extremely relieved that at last the man who attacked her has been identified and has today admitted his guilt.
"She is grateful that her case was never closed and is thankful that she will not have to give evidence and can finally get on with her life."
