LEONARD VANDENBORN SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS IN JERSEY FOR HISTORIC SEXUAL OFFENCES

In June 2010, Leonard Vandenborn, a 62-year-old man from Jersey, was sentenced to 12 years in prison after being found guilty of multiple sexual offences involving two young girls. Vandenborn denied attacking the two girls, who were aged between 8 and 14 at the time of the offences. However, following a five-day trial in April, the jury convicted him of rape and twelve counts of indecent assault. The assaults and rape occurred between 1975 and 1987.

When Vandenborn arrived at court for sentencing, he was aware he would be returning to prison. His defence lawyer, David Steenson, acknowledged the difficulty of his case, stating that the nature of the offences left little room for mitigation and that Vandenborn’s continued denial meant he could not demonstrate remorse.

In his remarks, Judge Sir Christopher Pitchers emphasized the severity of such abuse, stating, “It is impossible to exaggerate the grave consequences of this kind of sexual abuse.” He described the crimes as beginning when the victims were just eight and nine years old and called the offences “terrifying” and “disgraceful.” The judge highlighted that although the twelve-year sentence would eventually end, the victims would carry the trauma for the rest of their lives.

Victim A was indecently assaulted between 1975 and 1981. She reported the matter to police when she turned 15, but later withdrew her allegations. Victim B was assaulted between 1980 and 1987. In 1992, Vandenborn was imprisoned for six months for indecently assaulting another woman in a separate incident. It was only in September of the previous year that Vandenborn was arrested in relation to Victim A’s accusations and refused to answer questions. He was subsequently re-arrested in October in connection with Victim B’s allegations.

The two women who brought the charges against Vandenborn were commended for their bravery and resilience in rebuilding their lives. The judge noted that Vandenborn did not make the process easier for them, as he declined to give evidence and did not show any emotion when sentenced to twelve years—eight of which were for rape. He simply bowed as he left the courtroom, prepared to return to prison.

Following the sentencing, the States of Jersey Police issued a statement: “The sentencing to 12 years imprisonment at The Royal Court of Leonard Miles Vandenborn represents the successful conclusion to an investigation within the ongoing historic abuse enquiry. We recognise the courage of both victims for giving evidence in this case, and hope that the verdict and sentencing helps to bring closure to these serious offences. The States of Jersey Police are committed to investigating all allegations of abuse and violence and will support victims who report offences to us. The force has highly skilled officers, who work in this specialist area and who are committed to bringing offenders to justice.”