LEONARD TREACHER'S SHOCKING CRIMES IN GRIMSBY LEAD TO SPECIAL PRISON CELL FIGHT

In a case that has drawn significant public attention and legal scrutiny, Leonard Treacher, a convicted sex offender from Grimsby, has recently secured a victory in his ongoing battle for specialized prison accommodations. Treacher, now 52 years old, has been living in North Thoresby, Grimsby, under the alias 'Pete' since his release from incarceration in January 2014. His legal struggle centered around his demand for a specially adapted cell that would accommodate his severe disabilities, which have worsened considerably since his initial imprisonment.

Treacher’s criminal record is marked by a series of heinous offenses, including the rape and sexual assault of two young girls. His crimes, committed prior to his sentencing, led to his conviction at Grimsby Crown Court in July 2006, where he was sentenced to eight years in prison. His original residence was Winchester Avenue, but his incarceration history includes transfers between multiple facilities, notably HMP Hull and Whatton Prison in Nottingham. His transfer to HMP Wymott was a result of a High Court order that mandated the search for suitable accommodations across England and Wales.

Throughout his imprisonment, Treacher’s health has deteriorated significantly. He has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and has suffered two strokes, which have left him nearly blind and confined to a wheelchair. His physical condition restricts him to soft foods and causes muscle weakness on his right side. These disabilities prompted a top judge to order a nationwide search for a prison cell that could meet his needs, emphasizing the importance of humane treatment for disabled inmates.

In a notable legal development, Treacher argued before London's High Court that his living conditions in prison were inhumane. He claimed that his initial placement in a standard cell at HMP Hull, due to a shortage of adapted facilities, violated his rights under the Disability Discrimination Act. His complaints included the lack of an electric wheelchair, which he argued was essential for his mobility and dignity. Subsequently, he was transferred to Whatton Prison, where he was provided with an electric wheelchair and a more suitable living environment.

However, Treacher was dissatisfied with his accommodations there, describing the cell as inhumane because it required him to use a commode that was emptied into the same sink he used for washing. His legal team then pushed for further improvements, leading to a court order for the government to locate a suitable, specially adapted cell for him. This effort culminated in his current residence at HMP Wymott, where negotiations have continued to ensure his needs are met. Recently, both sides agreed to equip his cell with a mattress inclinater and explore other modifications to improve his quality of life.

Public sentiment remains divided, especially among victims of Treacher’s crimes. Two women from Grimsby, who were sexually abused and raped by him as children, expressed outrage at the court’s decision to consider his request for special accommodations. One of them stated, “Why should he have any human rights? He took away my innocence and my right to have a childhood.” Their comments reflect the deep scars left by his actions and the ongoing pain experienced by his victims. The case continues to highlight the complex balance between humane treatment of disabled prisoners and justice for those harmed by their crimes.