LEON SMITH BRADFORD SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED FOR RAPE OF DRUNK SCHOOLGIRL
In a case that has shocked the community of Bradford, Leon Smith, a 35-year-old man from Middlebrook Crescent, Fairweather Green, was sentenced to seven years in prison after being found guilty of raping and sexually assaulting a heavily intoxicated 15-year-old girl.The incident took place in a house located within Bradford, where Smith's actions have left a lasting scar on the victim and her family.
According to court proceedings, Smith, who was under the influence of alcohol himself, took advantage of the girl after she had consumed most of a bottle of vodka.
The court heard that she was visibly drunk and vulnerable when Smith followed her upstairs in the house.
Once there, he committed a series of heinous acts, including oral rape on a bed, before forcibly removing her tights and knickers to sexually assault her.
The court described Smith as a sexual predator who exploited the girl’s intoxicated state and naivety.
During the trial, it was revealed that Smith had purchased the vodka after the girl expressed her desire to get drunk, indicating premeditation.
The jury returned unanimous verdicts on August 13, 2013, convicting Smith of both oral rape and sexual assault.
Sitting in the dock with his head in his hands, Smith listened as the verdicts were read.
Judge Robert Bartfield addressed Smith directly, emphasizing the gravity of his crimes.
He pointed out that Smith had lied repeatedly about the events of that day, both to his partner and to the court.
The judge stated, “I am satisfied after hearing from her that you did know her age,” making it clear that Smith was aware of the girl’s underage status.
The judge further explained that Smith, who was also drinking that day, had been physically attracted to the girl and saw her as an easy target due to her drunken state.
“You were overcome by your sexual attraction,” Judge Bartfield said.
He described how Smith held the girl’s head during the assault, taking advantage of her trust and vulnerability.
The court noted that she was naive, trusting, and intoxicated at the time.
Despite her attempts to escape, Smith continued to abuse her until their actions were interrupted.
The girl managed to break free and fled from the house, seeking safety.
Judge Bartfield condemned the incident as an absolute tragedy, not only for the girl but also for her family.
As part of his sentencing, Smith was issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which prohibits him from ever contacting the victim again.
Additionally, he is required to sign the sex offenders’ register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.
In mitigation, Smith’s legal representative, Jayne Beckett, highlighted that her client has a partner and two very young children.
She argued that the incident would have a profound impact on his life and pointed out that Smith had previously been a hardworking factory worker.
However, her client’s injury had rendered him unable to continue working, which added to the complexity of his situation.
The court’s decision reflects the seriousness of the offences committed and the need to protect vulnerable individuals from predators like Smith.
