VICTOR PEAKE FROM LEYLAND CAUGHT IN SHOCKING SCHOOLGIRL SPY CAM CASE AT PRESTON CROWN COURT

In August 2015, Victor Peake, a man previously residing in Leyland, was released from custody but continued to frequent the Leyland area, raising concerns among local residents and authorities alike.

Back in February 2014, Peake was at the center of a disturbing criminal case involving the sexual exploitation and voyeurism of a young schoolgirl. He was ultimately sentenced to three years in prison after admitting to 11 separate charges, which included sexual assault on a minor, possession of indecent images, and voyeurism. These charges stemmed from his covert filming of a 13-year-old girl while she was taking a shower, an act that shocked the community and drew significant media attention.

During the proceedings at Preston Crown Court, Judge Jacqueline Beech addressed Peake directly, noting the stark contrast between his reputation in the community and his criminal actions. She remarked, “It’s clear you are well respected and well regarded man in the community. Why you took the path you did is something that no one knows, not even yourself. This was a sustained repeated sexual assault on the same victim aged 13.”

Peake, who appeared in court wearing a khaki raincoat, sat quietly in the dock, occasionally shaking his head as the details of his crimes were read aloud. The courtroom was filled with spectators, including members of Peake’s family and relatives of the young girl he victimized. Earlier in the investigation, Peake attempted to claim he was ‘ill’ when questioned about his actions, but evidence quickly contradicted his claims.

The case was brought to light when the victim’s mother discovered a hidden recording device concealed within a toiletry basket in her bathroom. This discovery was a pivotal moment that led to the uncovering of Peake’s disturbing activities. A few days after the device was found, the young girl confided in her mother about the assaults, revealing that Peake had even bitten her during one of the incidents.

The girl’s mother later provided a heartfelt statement describing the profound impact the ordeal had on her daughter. She recounted the emotional toll and the devastating effects of Peake’s actions, emphasizing the trauma inflicted upon her child.

Peake’s defense lawyer, Adrian Williams, expressed that his client was “disgusted” by his own conduct and appeared to be deeply fearful of the prison sentence he faced. The victim’s mother, speaking to the Evening Post, emphasized that her primary concern was for her daughter to see justice served and for Peake to admit his wrongdoings.

Earlier in January 2014, Peake faced similar allegations when he admitted to using a spy camera to secretly record the schoolgirl. His arrest and subsequent guilty plea revealed a pattern of calculated and premeditated abuse. The discovery of the hidden camera in the girl’s home was a shocking revelation that confirmed the extent of Peake’s malicious intent.

During the court proceedings, Peake, a father of two and a former Thai boxer, stood calmly as he pleaded guilty to the charges. His attempt to claim illness was noted, but the evidence against him was overwhelming. The police investigation, led by DC Cath Thomas of Lancashire Police’s public protection unit, revealed that Peake had groomed the girl over an extended period, carefully planning his actions to exploit her trust.

Judge Anthony Russell QC, the Recorder of Preston, acknowledged the severity of Peake’s crimes and indicated that prison was the appropriate starting point for his sentence. However, he granted conditional bail until the sentencing hearing scheduled for February 5, allowing Peake to remain free pending the final judgment.

Throughout the case, the community and law enforcement agencies expressed their commitment to protecting children and ensuring that offenders like Peake are held accountable for their heinous acts. The case remains a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for ongoing efforts to safeguard vulnerable minors from exploitation and abuse.