LESLEY GRAHAM FROM BARROW-IN-FURNESS AND ULVERSTON JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST CHILD

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Barrow-in-Furness and Ulverston, Leslie Graham, a man born in August 1948 and previously employed at a shipyard, has been found guilty of multiple serious sexual offences involving a young girl. The proceedings took place at Preston Crown Court, where Graham faced charges related to his abusive conduct over several years.

Leslie Graham was charged with three counts of sexual misconduct against a minor. The first two counts involved indecent assault on a child, each carrying a sentence of four years imprisonment. The third count involved sexual activity with a child, which was to be served concurrently with the other sentences, resulting in a total prison term of four years.

The court heard detailed testimony indicating that the abuse occurred over an extended period, with the victim, whose identity was protected under a court order issued under section 39 of the Young Persons Act 1933, being between the ages of 4 and 15 during the time of the offences. The judge emphasized the severity and prolonged nature of the abuse, which had a lasting impact on the victim.

Following the initial sentencing, the case was appealed. On December 21, 1993, the Court of Appeal reviewed the sentences for counts 1 and 2. The appellate court decided to quash the original four-year sentences for each of these counts and replaced them with 18 months imprisonment for each, to be served concurrently. However, the sentence for count 3 was upheld, and the total imprisonment period remained at four years.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of the justice system to address and penalize sexual offences against minors, and it underscores the importance of protecting vulnerable victims from such heinous acts. Leslie Graham’s conviction and sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of abusing trust and exploiting children.