JASON LEA FROM STOCKPORT SENTENCED TO 19 YEARS FOR GROSSE SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST CHILD

In a harrowing case that has shocked the community of Stockport, Jason Lea, a 33-year-old man, has been handed a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of multiple heinous sexual offences committed against a young girl. The court proceedings revealed the disturbing details of Lea’s actions, which spanned over a two-year period and involved a pattern of grotesque and manipulative abuse.

Lea’s crimes came to light when the young victim disclosed to a staff member at her school that she had been subjected to sexual abuse for several years. This disclosure prompted an investigation, during which police conducted a detailed video interview with the girl. She described in explicit terms how Lea would ask her to sit on his lap and would writhe on him, illustrating the disturbing nature of the offences. Prosecutor Julian Goode told Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court that Lea’s abuse was not an isolated incident but a regular occurrence, with the offender warning the girl to keep quiet or face imprisonment.

The court heard that Lea, who had no previous criminal record, had told the girl not to tell anyone about what was happening, further demonstrating his manipulative tactics. Despite the severity of the allegations, the girl initially believed Lea to be a “kind man,” a misconception that underscores the insidiousness of his grooming and abuse.

During the hearing, Lea’s defense lawyer, Howard Bernstein, emphasized that his client’s guilty pleas had spared the young victim from having to testify in court. Bernstein expressed hope that Lea’s admission of guilt marked the beginning of his understanding of his actions and his motivation to seek rehabilitation. He acknowledged that Lea had experienced a troubled childhood and described his crimes as “unspeakable,” noting that his client felt shame for his conduct.

Judge Bernadette Baxter addressed the court, describing Lea’s offending as “grotesque” and “cynical manipulation” of the child. She highlighted the regularity of the abuse and the profound impact it had on the victim, emphasizing the “terrible burden” placed upon her. The judge condemned Lea’s actions as a “grotesque abuse” of the girl’s trust and innocence.

As a result of his conviction, Jason Lea was sentenced to 19 years in prison, with a minimum of 12 years before he can apply for parole. The sentence also includes a lifelong Sexual Harm Prevention Order, reflecting the court’s assessment that he poses a significant risk of harm to children. Additionally, Lea was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions.

Lea had previously pleaded guilty to two counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault, and two charges related to causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. The case has left a lasting scar on the community of Stockport, highlighting the importance of vigilance and safeguarding measures to protect vulnerable children from predatory individuals.