DOMINIC LEGG SENTENCED IN HARTLEPOOL FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRLS

A young man from Hartlepool, Dominic Legg, has seen his prison sentence significantly increased following a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against three young girls over a span of four years. The disturbing case was brought to light during a hearing at Teesside Crown Court in November, where it was revealed that Legg, then only 19 years old, had subjected his victims to multiple acts of sexual assault and rape, causing profound trauma and lasting emotional scars.

Initially, Legg was sentenced to five years and nine months in a young offenders’ institution. However, after an appeal by the prosecution, the Court of Appeal decided to extend his incarceration to a total of eight years. This decision underscores the severity of his crimes and the importance of ensuring justice for the victims. Detective Inspector Lou Sproson, who leads the Hartlepool CID, expressed satisfaction with the increased sentence, stating, “I am pleased that Legg’s sentence has been increased to reflect the nature and severity of his offending. This is welcomed by the officers who investigated the case and by the victims and their families.”

Legg’s victims ranged in age from under ten years old to 15, with the abuse beginning when he was approximately 12 years old. The crimes took place while he was underage, adding further gravity to the case. During victim impact statements, the three young girls and their families detailed the devastating effects of Legg’s actions. One victim shared, “What Dominic Legg did to me physically and mentally broke me. This has had a massive impact on my life and I will hate myself forever for not doing anything sooner. I was a vulnerable little girl.”

Another victim recounted her ongoing struggles, saying, “I have had to go through therapy because of what happened to me. I could not even speak the words of what Dominic did to me. I fear every day that it will happen again and find it hard to adjust to normal life.”

Legg was found guilty on 13 charges related to the three victims, including counts of rape, sexual assault, and engaging in sexual activity with a child, following a trial. He resides on Harrow Street in Hartlepool and will remain on the sex offenders’ register for life. Additionally, he has been issued indefinite restraining orders that prevent him from making any contact with the victims, ensuring their ongoing safety and protection from further harm.