LEONARD STEVENS FROM BASILDON AND WICKFORD SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF SCHOOLGIRLS

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the local communities of Basildon and Wickford, Leonard Stevens, a 67-year-old man residing at Rose Acre in Basildon, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing four young girls. The disturbing case revealed a pattern of predatory behavior that spanned several decades, involving manipulation, exploitation, and abuse of vulnerable children.

Stevens, who was accused of gaining the trust of his young victims by giving them gifts, used this trust as a means to commit his heinous acts. His victims ranged in age from seven to 13 years old, with the first known incident occurring at his former residence in Wickford. This initial abuse took place over a four-year period from 1974 to 1978, during which Stevens subjected a young girl to repeated sexual assaults within the confines of his home.

Further allegations emerged involving three additional victims, all of whom were assaulted at Stevens' residence in Basildon. These incidents occurred between 2005 and the year prior to his sentencing, highlighting a disturbing pattern of behavior that persisted over many years. The details of these assaults, which included indecent touching, exposure, and other sexual misconduct, were brought to light during the trial at Basildon Crown Court.

During the proceedings, Stevens maintained his innocence, denying all charges and even attempting to shift blame onto the victims. Despite his protests, the court found sufficient evidence to convict him on multiple counts, including two counts of indecent assault, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, and sexual assault. He was also convicted of one count of sexual activity with a minor.

Following the verdict, Detective Constable Claire Talbot expressed her relief and the importance of justice for the victims. She stated, “It has been very difficult for the families of the victims. They have all suffered as a result of this and having to come to court and relive the traumatic experiences they went through. He has denied it all the way through and he even blamed the girls for some of the acts. I am pleased this man has now been identified as a sex offender and will be closely monitored once he is released from prison and other children will be kept safe. It has been an 18-month long investigation and it is satisfying that the victims are finally able to get some justice.”

As part of his sentence, Stevens was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for a period of ten years, ensuring ongoing monitoring and safeguarding measures to prevent further harm. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and the need to protect children from predators lurking within seemingly safe environments, such as homes in Basildon and Wickford.