A sex pest who preyed upon three woman - including at least one young girl - has shown no remorse for his crimes.

Samuel Apenteng, of Bardsley Close, in Colchester, had denied a charge of sexual assault, a charge of stalking and two lesser charges of simple stalking.

But the 33-year-old was found guilty after a week-long trial and sentenced to a total of 14 months in prison yesterday.

READ MORE: Stalker jailed for 14 months after campaign against three women

Detective Inspector Kev Hughes, of Colchester CID, said: “Apenteng’s actions are deeply concerning and caused the victims, including young girls, to feel harassed and frightened.

“During repeated inappropriate contact with the victims, it is clear Apenteng believed he could act and say what he wanted to his victims - who did nothing more than bump into him while out in town."

He added: “I would like to praise them all for their bravery and courage in coming forward.

"I would like to personally thank the courageous woman who took Apenteng’s photograph, which resulted in other victims coming forward following our social media appeal.

“Throughout the investigation and trial Apenteng has failed to show any emotion or remorse and has continued to deny the offences.

"I believe our communities can only be a safer place with him locked in a prison cell.”

During the hearing, the court heard an impact statement from one of the victims.

It read: "I never thought anything of it when he would simply say hello or ask me how my day was.

"There were days when I contemplated not going to work or seeing my friends because I was point blank scared of this guy. I felt trapped."

She described an occasion when Apenteng saw her out with her family. He saw her again a couple of days later and was able to describe exactly what she had been wearing.

She added: "For me that was a whole different level - it's not only scared and upset me. It has made me fear for my family.

"Although this wasn't a physical crime the mental factors are horrible."

Her statement said: "This crime has affected me in numerous ways, there is never a day that goes by when it's not on my mind.

"Every day is a struggle when it comes to doing the simplest things. I'm constantly checking behind me.

"This crime has and will scar me forever."