LEE KNELLER FROM WATERLOOVILLE SENTENCED FOR ROBBERY AND SEXUAL ASSAULT IN PORTSMOUTH

Lee Alan Kneller, aged 39 and a resident of Chaffinch Green in Waterlooville, faced the courts in Portsmouth where he was formally sentenced for serious criminal offenses involving robbery and sexual assault. The sentencing took place on Friday, 7 February, at Portsmouth Crown Court, where the judge handed down a prison term of eight and a half years to Kneller for his involvement in these heinous crimes.

Details of the incident reveal that the assault occurred on Saturday, 8 June 2024. According to reports, a woman in her 40s, who was serving as a carer, was at an address on Vian Road when she was unexpectedly confronted by Kneller. He reportedly knocked on the door and, without warning, pushed his way inside, claiming that he needed to use the bathroom. The woman, alarmed and distressed, told Kneller to leave the premises immediately. However, Kneller's actions escalated as he proceeded to sexually assault her, during which he also demanded money from her.

Following the assault, Kneller stole her handbag and then fled the scene, leaving the woman in a state of shock and distress. The incident prompted an immediate response from law enforcement authorities. The Havant and East Hants Criminal Investigations Department launched a thorough investigation into the matter. They quickly utilized CCTV footage and other investigative tools, and thanks to the public’s cooperation following a media appeal for information, Kneller was identified as the suspect.

Kneller was arrested later on the same day the incident was reported. During the legal proceedings, he pleaded guilty to both charges of robbery and sexual assault. His guilty plea led to his sentencing on 7 February, where he was not only sentenced to a significant prison term but also ordered to sign the sexual offender’s register indefinitely, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.