PUDSEY PREDATOR RAPED FOUR YOUNG GIRLS BEFORE DUCKING COURT AND HIDING IN IRELAND FOR 33 DAYS
A man from Leeds who had fled the country after being convicted of sexually abusing four young girls has finally received a prison sentence.Jason Spence, aged 38 and residing on Roker Lane in Pudsey, was found guilty at Leeds Crown Court of various sexual offenses.
These included four counts of rape and five counts of assault by touching.
The victims involved were all under 13 years old when the incidents occurred.
In addition, Spence was convicted of possessing indecent images of children and images that are classified as prohibited.
He was released on conditional bail on April 2 pending sentencing.
However, when he failed to appear in court on April 16, a warrant was issued for his apprehension.
Spence then went into hiding for 33 days until he was eventually apprehended in Ireland and returned to the UK.
On Wednesday, July 8, he was sentenced to an extended term of 32 years, comprising 24 years of imprisonment followed by eight years on licence.
Detective Constable Gemma Varley highlighted the seriousness of the case, saying, “The trauma these children endured at such a young age is beyond comprehension.
This investigation was complex, requiring careful and sensitive handling to gather evidence while being mindful of the victims' suffering.
The officer leading the investigation, Nicki Vincent, has since retired but returned to testify during the trial, helping ensure justice was served.” Detective Constable Susan Abbott, who was involved in safeguarding and led the manhunt, added, “Spence tried to escape justice by leaving the country before sentencing, which caused additional distress to the victims and their families.
We worked closely with Irish authorities to locate and arrest him, bringing him back to the UK for sentencing.
Spence is clearly dangerous, having exploited multiple children.
I hope his imprisonment provides some relief to those affected as they continue their recovery.”
