Two men have been charged with child prostitution offences, possession of indecent images and drug offences following an extensive investigation into an Essex based escort agency.

Stephen Castle, 39, a computer programmer formerly of High Street, Shoebury, and now living in Willowfield Square, Eastbourne has been charged with two counts of controlling child prostitution on dates between June 1, 2013 and August 31, 2014, possession of indecent images of teenage girls, distribution of indecent images, possession of Methredrone with intent to supply and supplying Methredrone. 

He will appear before Basildon Magistrates Court on May 14, 2015.

Steven Davis, 53, a car salesman from Hinguar Street in Shoebury, has been charged with two counts of arranging or facilitating child prostitution on dates between June 1, 2013 and August 31, 2014, being concerned in the supply of Methredrone, possession of an indecent image of a teenage girl and controlling prostitution for gain.

He too will appear before Basildon Magistrates Court on May 14, 2015.

This has been a complex investigation managed by the Serious and Organised Crime Unit in Essex in connection with the Escort Agency Girls4you.com which had been running in the Southend area for 14 years.

During the course of this investigation 14 other people, one of whom had links to the Brentwood area, were interviewed by police and cautioned for their involvement as drivers.

Officers are working closely with external charities and experts in supporting people in dealing with the issues raised by child prostitution.

Essex Police would urge anyone who has information or has been a victim of exploitation to contact the Serious and Organised Crime Unit on Essex Police 101 quoting Operation Cobham.

People can also make contact anonymously by contacting independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Anyone who would like support as a result of what they have experienced but does not wish to speak to Police is urged to contact the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90.