PAUL EVANS AND LEE MORRIS FROM BRADFORD AND SHIPLEY SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE

In a harrowing case that has shocked the communities of Bradford and Shipley, two brothers, Paul Evans and Lee Morris, have been sentenced to a combined total of ten years in prison for their involvement in a prolonged and disturbing pattern of child sexual abuse. The case was heard at Bradford Crown Court, where the court heard detailed accounts of the abuse inflicted upon a young girl over a period of six years, beginning when she was just six years old.

Judge Peter Benson delivered the sentences, emphasizing the gravity of the crimes committed. Evans, aged 27 and residing on Falmouth Avenue in Wapping, Bradford, was sentenced to seven years in prison after being convicted of five counts of rape and two counts of indecent assault. The judge described Evans’ conduct as a gross violation of trust, noting that he had abused the girl with impunity for his own sexual gratification. The court was told that Evans had taken advantage of the girl over a sustained period, with the abuse continuing until she was nearly 13 years old.

Lee Morris, aged 25 and living on Valley Road in Shipley, was sentenced to three years after pleading guilty to three counts of rape. The judge acknowledged Morris’s vulnerability and susceptibility to influence, stating, “I accept you were under the sway, and malign influence, of your brother.” Despite this, Judge Benson emphasized that Morris failed to recognize the harm he caused and the seriousness of his actions. The court heard that Morris was easily led and had copied his brother’s abusive behavior, which he had been told was permissible.

The court was also informed of the courageous efforts of the young victim, who twice gave evidence against Evans, demonstrating remarkable bravery in the face of trauma. The jury accepted her testimony on the second occasion, dismissing Evans’ account as lies. The prosecutor, Nicholas Askins, detailed how the abuse began with indecent touching when the girl was around six, escalating to rape from the age of approximately eight. Evans reportedly raped her weekly until just before her 13th birthday, with Morris joining in after being told by his brother that such behavior was allowed.

Legal representatives for the defendants provided context for their clients’ actions. Sophie Drake, representing Evans, argued that he was young at the time and has led a blameless life since. Stephen Wood, defending Morris, described him as psychologically vulnerable and easily influenced, stating, “He copied what his brother did, and copied what his brother told him to do.”

Following their convictions, both Evans and Morris were subjected to Sexual Offences Prevention Orders. These orders prohibit them from having unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 16 and from seeking employment that could give them access to minors. Additionally, they are required to register as sex offenders for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect potential future victims.