LESLEY BURRELL, THE PROLIFIC CHILD RAPIST FROM BROMLEY AND DOWNHAM, SENTENCED TO 28 YEARS IN PRISON

In a landmark case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Bromley and Downham, Leslie Burrell, a 62-year-old man from Whitefoot Lane, was officially sentenced to a lengthy term of 28 years in prison on July 11, following his conviction for an extensive series of child sexual abuse offenses.

Burrell was found guilty of committing a total of 39 separate counts related to the sexual exploitation of minors, which included heinous acts such as rape, engaging in sexual activities with children, and taking indecent photographs of a young victim. His victims, comprising 11 boys and one girl, endured abuse spanning over three decades, from 1972 to 2007, highlighting a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior that persisted for 35 years.

During the proceedings at Woolwich Crown Court, Judge Amy Robinson delivered a powerful and condemning statement, emphasizing the severity and depravity of Burrell’s actions. She stated, "You stand convicted of 39 offences involving the sexual abuse of a number of young boys and a girl, including 13 counts of rape. You took every opportunity to abuse these children, you corrupted their young lives." The judge further explained that Burrell had manipulated and groomed his victims over a long period, making them compliant and vulnerable to his exploitation. "The effect on the victims has been varied, each has acted differently. You took away their innocence. You have caused them deep embarrassment, shame, and anger. It was a gross abuse of trust, truly shocking," she added.

Many of Burrell’s victims were compelled to testify against him, often behind screens or through pre-recorded interviews, to shield them from the trauma of facing their abuser in court. Judge Robinson expressed concern about the ongoing risk Burrell poses, stating, "It is highly unlikely that such a prolific series of offences will come to an abrupt end. Who can say when that risk will cease? There remains a significant risk of serious abuse to children by you committing these offences."

Throughout the trial, Leslie Burrell maintained his innocence, denying all charges brought against him. The convictions included a range of offenses under the Sexual Offences Act 1956 and 2003, such as indecent assault, buggery, and rape of minors under 16 and under 13, as well as taking indecent photographs of a child under the Protection of Children Act 1978.

Specifically, the court found Burrell guilty of multiple counts of indecent assault on young males, as well as more severe crimes like buggery and rape, with some victims under the age of 13. The evidence presented painted a disturbing picture of a man who exploited his position of trust and manipulated vulnerable children for decades.

Andrew Baxter, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London, commented on the case, highlighting Burrell’s predatory nature. He said, "Burrell is a prolific sexual offender who preyed mainly on young boys over a period of more than three decades. He carried out hundreds of acts of sexual abuse in the Bromley area between 1972 and 2007." Baxter praised the bravery of the victims who came forward, noting, "Today he has finally been brought to justice thanks to the courage of his victims to come forward and speak out against their abuser."

The prosecutor also acknowledged the importance of support measures that allowed victims to give evidence safely, including pre-recorded testimonies and screens, which helped shield them from direct confrontation with Burrell during court proceedings. Baxter reaffirmed the CPS’s commitment to tackling child sexual abuse, stating, "The Crown Prosecution Service has made tackling child sexual abuse a national priority and last month the Director of Public Prosecutions launched new interim guidelines for prosecutors dealing with such cases. CPS London is committed to working with its partners in the police and other agencies to ensure that those who abuse and exploit children are brought to justice."

As Leslie Burrell begins his lengthy incarceration, the communities of Bromley and Downham are left to grapple with the aftermath of this disturbing case, and the victims are left to rebuild their lives after enduring such profound trauma over many years.