IAN MCLEOD FROM ASHFORD SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN AFRICA AND UK

In a significant development in the fight against child sexual abuse, Ian McLeod, a man originally from Ashford, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after a lengthy investigation and legal proceedings. The case, which spans over a decade, involves heinous crimes committed in Maidstone and other locations, with the perpetrator fleeing the UK to evade justice.

McLeod, who was 48 years old at the time of his arrest, had previously worked as a civilian driving instructor in the Army. His criminal activities came to light after allegations of sexual abuse involving three young girls surfaced. The abuse reportedly took place in Maidstone, with evidence indicating that the crimes occurred over a period of more than ten years. One of the victims, a girl just nine years old, was subjected to sexual acts and was forced to watch child pornography, highlighting the severity and depravity of McLeod’s actions.

Following the accusations, McLeod-McLean, as he was also known, did not appear in court as scheduled in May 2008. Instead, he chose to flee the country, disappearing from the UK and evading arrest. It was only after he was hospitalized in Sierra Leone due to a serious bout of malaria that authorities identified him as an illegal immigrant and a wanted man for crimes committed in the UK. It was subsequently discovered that he had been living rough in Sierra Leone, a country torn by conflict, for approximately two years.

Recognizing the danger he posed and the need for justice, local police officers collaborated with international counterparts. Their efforts led to McLeod’s deportation back to the UK, where he was promptly arrested upon arrival at London Heathrow Airport. The police investigation revealed his continued presence in Sierra Leone, where he had been hiding for an extended period.

On September 30, at Maidstone Crown Court, McLeod-McLean pleaded guilty to 19 counts of sexual abuse. The court heard harrowing details of his crimes, which included forcing one of his victims to watch child pornography and engaging in sexual acts with a girl as young as nine. The judge, Philip Statman, condemned McLeod’s actions, stating, “The level of sexual degradation in your particular case is considerable.”

Detective Chief Inspector Simon Wilson of Maidstone Police expressed his relief that justice had been served. He emphasized the lasting impact of McLeod’s crimes, noting that the victims would carry the scars for the rest of their lives. Wilson also highlighted the importance of international cooperation in bringing McLeod to justice, praising the strong links with Sierra Leone police that facilitated his arrest and deportation.

Wilson further stated, “Nothing will bring back the innocence that this man stole from these young girls. His campaign of abuse and terror stretched over more than ten years, and the mental scars will endure.” He expressed hope that the sentence would help the victims find some measure of closure and strength to move forward. The police officer also thanked the victims for their bravery in coming forward, which enabled authorities to uncover additional victims and build a comprehensive case against McLeod.

As part of his sentence, Ian Duncan McLeod-McLean will be required to register as a sex offender for life. He is also prohibited from working with or communicating with children, using the internet, or possessing any video recording devices. These measures aim to prevent any further harm and ensure public safety. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the relentless pursuit of justice for victims of sexual crimes, regardless of how long ago the offenses occurred.