STUART LEES FROM CANNOCK SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING YOUNG GIRLS IN STAFFORDSHIRE
| Red Rose Database
Cannock Rapist
In a case that has shocked the local community, Stuart Lees, a 43-year-old businessman from Malthouses, Great Saredon, near Cannock in Staffordshire, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 11 years for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against young girls. The sentencing took place at Wolverhampton Crown Court, where Judge Christopher Hodson delivered a stern verdict, emphasizing the gravity of Lees's crimes.
Judge Hodson described Lees's actions as 'foul and loathsome,' highlighting the disturbing nature of the offenses. He also pointed out that Lees had not only committed these acts but had also threatened his victims, adding to the trauma they endured. The judge expressed concern that Lees had subjected his victims to the ordeal of giving evidence in court, further emphasizing the severity of the case.
Lees, who owns a construction business, was found guilty after a comprehensive trial that revealed a pattern of abuse spanning several years. The court heard that the offenses involved multiple victims, all under the age of 18, with incidents dating back to the 1980s and 1990s. The jury convicted Lees of rape and four counts of indecent assault, marking a significant legal victory for the prosecution.
However, the court also noted that Lees was acquitted of another rape charge, and a further similar charge was left unresolved after the jury was unable to reach a verdict following more than 14 hours of deliberation. The judge ordered that this unresolved charge be left on the file, meaning it could potentially be revisited in the future.
In addition to the prison sentence, the judge stipulated that Lees would not be eligible for parole until he has served at least half of his 11-year term. This decision underscores the court's recognition of the seriousness of his crimes and the need for a substantial period of incarceration.
During the trial, Lees's defense was represented by Mr. Michael Pert, who stated that Lees had instructed him to make no plea in mitigation, indicating a lack of remorse or willingness to contest the severity of the sentence. The verdict was reached through a combination of unanimous and majority decisions on the various charges, reflecting the jury's careful consideration of the evidence presented.
This case has left a lasting impact on the community in Cannock and Staffordshire, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable young individuals and ensuring justice is served for victims of such heinous crimes.
Judge Hodson described Lees's actions as 'foul and loathsome,' highlighting the disturbing nature of the offenses. He also pointed out that Lees had not only committed these acts but had also threatened his victims, adding to the trauma they endured. The judge expressed concern that Lees had subjected his victims to the ordeal of giving evidence in court, further emphasizing the severity of the case.
Lees, who owns a construction business, was found guilty after a comprehensive trial that revealed a pattern of abuse spanning several years. The court heard that the offenses involved multiple victims, all under the age of 18, with incidents dating back to the 1980s and 1990s. The jury convicted Lees of rape and four counts of indecent assault, marking a significant legal victory for the prosecution.
However, the court also noted that Lees was acquitted of another rape charge, and a further similar charge was left unresolved after the jury was unable to reach a verdict following more than 14 hours of deliberation. The judge ordered that this unresolved charge be left on the file, meaning it could potentially be revisited in the future.
In addition to the prison sentence, the judge stipulated that Lees would not be eligible for parole until he has served at least half of his 11-year term. This decision underscores the court's recognition of the seriousness of his crimes and the need for a substantial period of incarceration.
During the trial, Lees's defense was represented by Mr. Michael Pert, who stated that Lees had instructed him to make no plea in mitigation, indicating a lack of remorse or willingness to contest the severity of the sentence. The verdict was reached through a combination of unanimous and majority decisions on the various charges, reflecting the jury's careful consideration of the evidence presented.
This case has left a lasting impact on the community in Cannock and Staffordshire, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable young individuals and ensuring justice is served for victims of such heinous crimes.