WILLIAM LEE OF HALESOWEN SENTENCED TO 14 YEARS FOR SERIOUS SEX OFFENCES

A 38-year-old man from Halesowen, William Lee, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison after being convicted of a series of heinous sexual attacks on a schoolgirl. The sentencing took place at Wolverhampton Crown Court, where Judge Nicholas Webb emphasized the severe impact of Lee's actions. He stated, "The damage you caused to this girl is beyond calculation," and noted that reports indicated Lee still posed a risk to young children.

During the hearing, the judge criticized Lee for his predatory behavior, saying, "You imposed your will on this girl and selfishly exploited her for your own gratification." Lee, residing on Crimmond Road, was found guilty by a jury on majority verdicts on five charges of rape, along with convictions on two additional charges: sexual assault, sexual activity with a child, causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and sexual activity in the presence of a child.

The court also mandated Lee to register as a sex offender for life and prohibited him from working with children in the future. Despite the seriousness of his crimes, Judge Webb acknowledged that Lee appeared to refuse responsibility, remarking, "I think you can be managed by a long determinate sentence and the ancillary orders."

Defending Lee, solicitor Samantha Powis highlighted his previously good character and submitted 23 references to the court. The judge acknowledged the gravity of Lee's offenses but also recognized that the character references revealed a different side of him.