ANTHONY LECK FROM GAINESBOROUGH AND BILLINGHAM ESCAPES JAIL AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULTS IN STOCKTON

In a case that has drawn significant attention from the local community, Anthony Leck, a 41-year-old man with ties to Billingham, Gainsborough, and Stockton, was involved in two disturbing sexual assault incidents involving a teenage girl. Despite the severity of his actions, Leck was ultimately spared a custodial sentence during his appearance at Teesside Crown Court.

According to court reports, Leck committed two separate acts of sexual misconduct against the young victim. In the first incident, he forcibly grabbed her breasts, an act that left her feeling violated and distressed. The second incident was equally troubling, as Leck placed his hands over her breasts while she was sleeping in her pyjamas. The victim, who was a teenager at the time, managed to push Leck away when he was intoxicated, and later expressed her feelings of hatred towards him to the police.

Leck, who works as a landscape gardener and was residing on Sun Street in Stockton at the time of his arrest, was taken into custody on June 30 of the previous year. He subsequently pleaded guilty to both charges of sexual assault. His legal representative, Nigel Soppitt, explained to the court that Leck was unable to fully account for his actions, suggesting that he initially believed his behaviour was harmless and not malicious. Soppitt emphasized that Leck deeply regrets his conduct and insisted there was no intent to threaten or menace the victim during the incidents.

During the hearing, Judge Les Spittle acknowledged the gravity of the offences but also considered Leck’s remorse and his admission of guilt. While the judge stated that he would normally impose a custodial sentence, he decided to exercise leniency based on the circumstances. The judge noted that Leck was not attempting to shift blame and had shown genuine remorse, which influenced his decision to avoid immediate imprisonment.

As part of his sentence, Leck was handed a two-year community rehabilitation order. He was also mandated to participate in a sex offenders treatment programme and was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for a period of five years. Furthermore, the court imposed strict restrictions on Leck’s interactions, ruling that he must have no contact with his victim. Additionally, he was prohibited from employing anyone under the age of 18 in his business activities, reflecting the court’s concern for public safety and the protection of minors.

Leck’s case highlights ongoing issues related to sexual misconduct and the importance of appropriate legal responses. The court’s decision underscores the balance between punishment and rehabilitation, especially in cases involving remorse and cooperation from the offender.