ASHFORD MAN LESLIE HIGGINS SENTENCED FOR CHILD RAPE AFTER VICTIM WATCHES EASTENDERS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Ashford, Kent, Leslie Higgins, a 73-year-old married father of two, was sentenced to 12 years in prison after being convicted of serious sexual offenses involving a young girl. The case came to light after the victim, a young girl, watched a storyline on the popular BBC soap opera EastEnders, which depicted a young girl named Whitney Dean, aged 15, suffering abuse at the hands of her stepfather. This emotional scene prompted the girl to confide in her mother about her own experiences of abuse.

Higgins’s crimes were uncovered following her disclosure, leading to a police investigation that revealed the full extent of his misconduct. The court heard that Higgins had engaged in acts of rape, sexual assault, and sexual activity with a minor, actions that have been described as having profoundly damaged the girl’s childhood and innocence.

During the proceedings at Maidstone Crown Court, Judge Andrew Patience addressed Higgins directly, condemning his actions and emphasizing the severity of his violations. The judge stated, “You violated this child,” underscoring the gravity of the crimes committed.

Higgins, who was known locally in Ashford, was found guilty of multiple charges related to sexual abuse of a minor. His conviction and subsequent sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of child abuse and the importance of vigilance and intervention in such cases.