Cambridge Man Jailed for Child Sexual Abuse

CAMBRIDGE MAN JAILED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

A man has been sentenced after being convicted of multiple sexual offences against a young girl.

Lee Merrison, aged 34, was found guilty at Lincoln Crown Court of crimes including sexual assault on a child under 13, engaging in sexual communication with a minor, and exposure.

The court was told that the victim suffered severe emotional trauma, including flashbacks and hallucinations, as a result of Merrison's abuse.

Merrison, who previously lived in Long Sutton and now resides in Wisbech in Cambridgeshire, received a prison sentence of five years and ten months.

In an impact statement, the victim expressed how the crimes have "ruined my life" and she no longer feels safe around men.

The judge, Recorder Paul Mann KC, highlighted that Merrison had developed an obsession with the OnlyFans website, which illustrated his sexual interests.

He emphasized the enormous impact on the victim's mental health and made Merrison subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, restricting his contact with girls and internet use.

Merrison is also required to register as a sex offender for life.

Four additional charges did not result in a verdict and were left on file.

The court heard that Merrison first targeted the girl in 2020, and the offences continued over three years.

Lincolnshire Police officials condemned Merrison's actions, stating he groomed the victim under profoundly exploitative circumstances, taking advantage of her vulnerability at a difficult time.

They described his conduct as a stark betrayal of trust and decency.