PREDATORY POLICE OFFICER HAD SEX WITH VULNERABLE WOMAN ON DUTY AND INDECENTLY ASSAULTED SINGLE MUM
A disgraced police officer exploited two vulnerable women—having sex with one while on duty and indecently assaulting the other.Erling Leask, a former military serviceman turned police officer, was well-regarded and trusted to serve and protect the community.
Both women he exploited were single mothers who had faced domestic abuse; they looked up to Leask when he offered them assistance and support.
He engaged in an inappropriate sexual relationship with one woman and committed an indecent assault against the other.
During court proceedings, it was disclosed that Leask had previously been disciplined by professional standards in 2002 for his behavior toward the second woman.
The first woman recounted that Leask initially provided support regarding her problematic relationship but later behaved inappropriately—visiting her home frequently, hugging her when she was upset, and eventually engaging in a sexual relationship she felt was not fully consensual due to her vulnerable state.
The second woman, who was extremely fragile due to violence from her partner, was contacted by police while Leask was still on duty.
She later reported his misconduct, describing feelings of fear, a loss of trust in law enforcement, and a profound impact on her life.
Leask, 56 years old, of Deepdale Crescent, Cowgate, pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office concerning both women and to indecently assaulting the second victim.
He was sentenced to 20 months in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered to perform 100 hours of unpaid work along with mandatory rehabilitation.
The judge highlighted the importance of maintaining high integrity standards among police officers and condemned his serious breach of trust.
