Police appeal following criminal damage incident at Cecil Court, Southend

Police are appealing for information after a door at a property in Cecil Court, Jones Close was damaged on Christmas Eve.

The incident occurred at approximately 11:05pm, and officers have now released an image of a man they wish to speak to in connection with their inquiries.

The 12-storey block of flats is home to a mix of families and elderly residents, forming a close-knit community. However, concerns over anti-social behaviour have been raised in recent months. A December 2024 inspection of the building noted issues, including a strong smell in the communal corridor on the 5th floor and faeces in the 10th-floor bin chute room, which required cleaning.

Given these concerns, this latest act of criminal damage is particularly unsettling for residents. Police are urging anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam footage, or other relevant evidence to come forward.

If you can assist the investigation, please reference incident 33 of 25 December and contact Essex Police via their website or 24/7 Live Chat service.

Alternatively, anonymous reports can be made through Crimestoppers by visiting their website or calling 0800 555 111.

Residents of Cecil Court who experience or witness anti-social behaviour can also report incidents directly to South Essex Homes at any time:

Freephone: 0800 833 160
Email: antisocialbehaviour@seh.southend.gov.uk

Cecil Court was constructed in 1966. It is owned by Southend City Council and managed by South Essex Homes.