JOSEPH LEE FROM WIGAN SENTENCED FOR ATTEMPTED RAPE AND HOME INVASION IN BOLTON AND MARSH GREEN
In a disturbing series of criminal acts, Joseph Lee, a resident of Wigan, has been sentenced to life imprisonment following his conviction for attempting to sexually assault an unconscious woman in her own home.The incident, which took place in Bolton, revealed a troubling pattern of predatory behavior that spanned several years and involved multiple victims.
Lee's latest offense occurred just three months after he was released from a previous prison sentence.
The court heard that he had an extensive criminal history, including convictions for sexual offenses against women who were asleep or unconscious at the time.
His victim in the recent case was the fourth woman to fall prey to his sexual abuse while she was sleeping, highlighting his persistent and dangerous predatory tendencies.
The incident unfolded on January 12 of this year at a residence in Bolton.
Lee was present at the victim's home on Langdale Crescent, Orrell, Wigan, along with a mutual friend.
According to court reports, around 3:10 a.m., the friend left the house to visit a nearby shop, leaving the victim sleeping on the living room sofa.
Approximately 10 minutes later, the friend returned to find Lee attempting to engage in sexual activity with the unconscious woman.
Shocked and alarmed, the friend immediately confronted Lee, who then ceased his actions and quickly left the premises after a brief confrontation.
The friend wasted no time in contacting the police, and Lee was arrested the following day.
The court was informed that Lee's predatory behavior was not isolated.
Just days prior, on January 4, he had participated in a violent home invasion in Marsh Green, Wigan.
During that incident, a woman sitting in her living room at around 3 a.m.
was startled when she saw two intruders entering her home after she had left her door insecure.
The intruders attempted to steal her car, with Lee and another man trying to take the vehicle.
The woman, sitting in the passenger seat, screamed for help, prompting neighbors to come outside and scare off the intruders.
Lee pleaded guilty to robbery for this offense and was subsequently sentenced to three years and four months in prison.
Judge Bolton Crown Court, after considering Lee's dangerous history and the severity of his latest offense, decided that he should serve a life sentence.
The court also imposed a minimum term of six years before Lee could be considered for parole.
Lee's criminal record, marked by multiple convictions for sexual offenses and violent crimes, underscores the ongoing threat he poses to the community.
His case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilant law enforcement and the need for stringent sentencing to protect potential victims from repeat offenders.
