A man has today been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of 49-year-old John Masser from Basildon.

Steven Keeble will serve a minimum of 14 years.

As he was taken down, there was a large disturbance in the dock between Keeble and the custody officers and a panic alarm was activated.

Mr Masser died following an assault in Moss Drive, Basildon, on Sunday, October 1, 2017.

He was taken to hospital with serious head injuries, and sadly died on Tuesday October 3.

Steven Keeble, 37, of Moss Close, Basildon, denied murdering Mr Masser, but was found guilty following a ten day trial at Basildon Crown Court. 

The court heard how on Sunday, October 1, Keeble had attended an address in Moss Drive, following a dispute with his partner.

A short time later Mr Masser attended the same location and following a brief exchange was assaulted by Keeble who forced him to the floor and repeatedly kicked him in the head and neck area.

The court heard how Keeble took an "intense dislike" to Mr Masser because he believed he was a sexual predator.

Mr Masser had been due to stand trial for a historic rape charge two months after his death.

He always denied the allegation, which related to an incident 30 years ago, and CPS confirmed they are taking no further action.