JAMES LEE FROM PURFLEET SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC SEXUAL ABUSE IN EAST LONDON

In a case that has shocked the local community and brought to light the disturbing extent of long-term abuse, James Lee, also known as "Tony" Lee, of Joslin Road in Purfleet, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for a series of heinous crimes committed over a span of more than two decades.

Between 1975 and 2000, Lee subjected two young female victims to repeated sexual assaults at various locations across east London. The abuse began when one of the victims was only seven years old, while the other was under the age of 16 at the time the assaults started. The court heard that Lee's predatory behavior was both persistent and systematic, with the offender exploiting his victims over a period of 25 years.

Adding a further layer of depravity, Lee was found to have filmed some of the abuse. Police investigators discovered a collection of videotapes containing footage of the offences stored securely in a safe at Lee’s residence during his arrest earlier this year. These recordings provided crucial evidence that helped establish the full extent of his crimes.

The victims, both of whom remain unnamed for legal reasons, came forward separately to report their experiences. The first victim, who chose to remain anonymous, reported her abuse in February 2018. Following a thorough investigation, authorities identified the second victim, who also disclosed the horrific details of her ordeal at the hands of Lee.

On February 15, 2018, Lee was arrested at his home in Purfleet. He was formally charged on March 14 and subsequently pleaded guilty to 28 separate offences, including rape, buggery, and indecent assault, during a hearing at Snaresbrook Crown Court on June 1. His guilty plea marked a significant step in delivering justice for the victims.

Lee’s sentencing took place on Thursday, August 14, at the same court. The judge handed down a 20-year prison term, reflecting the severity and prolonged nature of his crimes. The court’s decision underscores the gravity of his actions and the devastating impact on the victims’ lives, as Lee’s offenses have left a lasting scar on those affected by his predatory behavior in east London.