LESLEY ANDREW FROM KILWINNING SENTENCED FOR RAPE AND ABUSE IN AYRSHIRE AND WEST LOTHIAN

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Kilwinning and surrounding areas, Leslie Andrew, aged 42, has been sentenced to six years in prison after admitting to a series of heinous sexual and physical assaults spanning over two decades. The offences included the rape of a pregnant woman, repeated physical violence against two former partners, and the sexual molestation of a teenage girl.

Leslie Andrew’s criminal actions came to light during a court hearing at the High Court in Edinburgh, where it was revealed that he had been a violent and aggressive bully throughout his relationships. The court heard that Andrew, who resides on Alexandra Gardens in Kilwinning, Ayrshire, had committed a particularly egregious act in 1993 when he raped a woman at a house in Broxburn, West Lothian. The victim was pregnant at the time, and Andrew’s assault was characterized by the use of his considerable weight—20 stone—to intimidate and overpower her. Despite her protests, he pinned her to a bed, demonstrating a blatant disregard for her consent and well-being.

In addition to the rape, Andrew admitted to subjecting both women to repeated physical assaults over a prolonged period. The court was told that his violent tendencies extended beyond these incidents, with the second victim suffering from depression, anxiety, and a significant loss of self-esteem as a result of his relentless abuse. Her life was profoundly affected, leading to a complete breakdown in her ability to function normally.

The court also heard disturbing details about Andrew’s predatory behavior towards a 15-year-old girl. Under the cover of darkness, he sneaked into her bedroom and attempted to remove her clothes. The young girl, terrified and feeling unable to speak out, kept silent for several months, fearing she would not be believed. It was only in September 2012 that she confided in someone, which prompted a police investigation. This investigation uncovered further evidence of Andrew’s misconduct, leading to additional charges.

Prosecutor Bill McVicar outlined the severity of Andrew’s actions, emphasizing the long-lasting impact on his victims. The court was told that Andrew’s pattern of violence and control was a defining feature of his relationships, with his former partners living in fear of his explosive temper and domineering behavior. The judge, Lord Pentland, described Andrew as a “violent and aggressive bully” with “marked domineering and controlling tendencies.”

Addressing the court, Lord Pentland noted that Andrew’s conduct had caused significant suffering and that his actions were not isolated incidents but part of a sustained pattern of abuse. The judge highlighted that the victims endured these hardships over many years, with their lives deeply affected by his violence.

Andrew’s defense team argued that he had been diagnosed with serious anger management issues and was committed to addressing them. Despite this, Lord Pentland pointed out that the sentence would have been eight years if not for Andrew’s guilty plea. Ultimately, he was sentenced to six years in prison, with the court making it clear that the severity of his crimes warranted a lengthy custodial sentence.

Following his release, Andrew is expected to be housed in Ayrshire, where authorities will continue to monitor his rehabilitation efforts. The case serves as a stark reminder of the lasting scars inflicted by domestic violence and sexual abuse, and the importance of justice for victims who often suffer in silence for years.