An east London man has been charged with sexual assault following an alleged incident in Loughton in the early hours of August 24, 2024. Reinaldo Valdes, 57, of Avril Way, E4, was charged with sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault. He appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court on June 11, where he denied both charges. Valdes was released on conditional bail and was due to stand trial at the same court in August 2027. The victim has been supported by specialists throughout the investigation.