DANIEL LEKES FROM ACOMB, YORK SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In March 2014, a serious criminal case unfolded involving Daniel Derek Leeks, a retail manager based in York, who was convicted of engaging in sexual activity with a minor. The incident took place at his residence in Acomb Mews, Acomb, where Leeks invited a 14-year-old girl along with her friend. Prosecutor Roderick Hunt detailed that Leeks offered the girls vodka and other strong alcoholic beverages during their visit.

According to the court proceedings, Leeks continued to serve the girls alcohol until the 14-year-old girl was so intoxicated that she was unable to stand and subsequently became sick. During this time, Leeks was also drinking lager. After the girl was heavily intoxicated, Leeks walked her friend home, claiming he would look after the 14-year-old girl and that she could sleep in his bed while he rested on the sofa.

However, instead of caring for her, Leeks subjected the girl to a night of sexual activity. The court heard that he later provided a detailed account of these events to the police. The victim, due to her intoxication, was unable to remember the incident clearly, which added to the complexity of the case. York Crown Court was told that the girl was so drunk that she could not recall what had transpired.

Judge Stephen Ashurst, the Recorder of York, sentenced Leeks to three years in prison. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for life. During the sentencing, Judge Ashurst emphasized the gravity of Leeks' actions, stating, “You have brought all of this down on yourself by being quite unable to control your sexual urges on that night where in circumstances because of the drink you had provided, she was in no position to make informed decisions for herself.”

Leeks had unprotected sex with the girl and explicitly told her not to disclose the incident because of her age. He later claimed to police that the girl had been an “enthusiastic participant,” a statement that was not accepted by the court. He pleaded guilty to the charge of sexual activity with a child.

Furthermore, Leeks was issued a sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits him from associating with children under 16, and specifically with the girl involved in the case. His employer, a large retail organization in York, expressed support for him, stating that they were willing to stand by him if he avoided jail time. Chris Tehrani, representing the employer, explained that Leeks was unsure why the incident occurred, attributing it to his drinking and feelings of loneliness following a breakup with his girlfriend a few months prior. Tehrani added that Leeks was working and felt isolated, which contributed to his actions.

Following his arrest and conviction, Leeks expressed concern that the girl might be pregnant, indicating the ongoing emotional and physical repercussions of his actions. The case highlights the serious consequences of abusing trust and the importance of safeguarding minors from exploitation and harm.