LESLEY SHEPPARD FROM COXHOE JAILED FOR INDECENT ASSAULT ON YOUNG GIRLS IN DURHAM

In February 2005, a serious criminal case involving a Labour Councillor from Coxhoe, Durham, Les Sheppard, came to light, revealing disturbing allegations of indecent assault against young girls. The case, which had been ongoing since 2004, resulted in a conviction that sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond.

Les Sheppard, aged 71 at the time, was found guilty of ten separate counts of indecent assault involving young girls whose ages ranged from nine to thirteen years old. The court proceedings, held at Teeside Crown Court, detailed the heinous nature of his crimes, which spanned over a period of time and involved manipulative tactics to lure his victims.

According to court records, Sheppard would entice his young victims into his luxury gold Porsche, a vehicle that he used as a tool to gain their trust. Once inside, he would drive them to secluded and remote locations, where he committed the sexual offenses. The court described these acts as sickening and deeply disturbing, highlighting the severity of his misconduct.

Following his arrest, Les Sheppard made a chilling statement to police, saying, “I love women, but you do things which you regret.” This remark was seen as a disturbing insight into his mindset and was used as evidence during his trial.

As a result of his conviction, Sheppard was sentenced to two years in prison. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years, a measure intended to monitor and restrict his activities post-release. The case underscored the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to bring offenders to justice, especially those in positions of trust within local communities like Coxhoe.