LEE LONG FROM FARNHAM SENTENCED TO 36 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON YOUNG GIRLS IN GUILDFORD

In a case that has shocked the local community, Lee Long, a man residing on Bardsley Drive in Farnham, has been sentenced to a total of 36 years in prison after being found guilty of committing 22 separate sexual assault offences against two young girls. The crimes, which spanned over a decade from 1991 to 2005, were brought to light through a combination of historic DNA evidence and thorough police investigation.

Long, aged 48 at the time of sentencing and previously living in Guildford, pleaded guilty to all charges during a hearing at Guildford Crown Court. The court was informed that DNA evidence, which was tested and verified at an extraordinary level of 2,300,000 times, conclusively linked him to the offences. This scientific evidence played a crucial role in securing the conviction and underscored the seriousness of the case.

During the sentencing, Judge Stephen Climie addressed the court and emphasized the severity of Long’s actions. He sentenced Long to serve a minimum of 20 years behind bars, but the total sentence was extended to 36 years due to the number and gravity of the offences. Judge Climie expressed deep concern over Long’s apparent lack of remorse or insight into the harm caused, stating that Long’s attitude demonstrated a continued risk to the public.

“The lack of insight and that attitude makes you a current risk, and an ongoing risk for the rest of your life,” Judge Climie declared. He also noted that the case had narrowly missed the threshold for a life sentence, which highlights the gravity of the crimes committed.

Victims of Long’s abuse have spoken out about the lasting impact of his actions. One survivor described the trauma as something she would have to carry with her forever, while another explained that the abuse had shattered her ability to trust others and had robbed her of her childhood innocence and sense of freedom.

As part of his sentence, Long will be subject to lifelong registration as a sex offender and will be subject to a sexual offences prevention order. He is expected to be released on licence in 2036, after serving the minimum term of his sentence. The court’s decision aims to protect the community and prevent any further harm from Long, who remains a significant concern for authorities and the victims alike.