LEONARD SKINNER FROM WHITLEY BAY SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND

In March 2016, Leonard Skinner, a 79-year-old former vicar, was sentenced to eight years in prison after he pleaded guilty to four counts of indecent assault. These assaults were committed against a young boy during the 1970s, a period when Skinner was serving in a church in the south of England. The allegations came to light after investigations were initiated following reports from victims and witnesses.

After his retirement, Skinner relocated to North Tyneside, specifically to the Whitley Bay area, where he lived until his arrest and subsequent conviction. The case drew significant attention, prompting church authorities to issue a formal apology to the victim and to encourage any other potential victims to come forward and seek justice. The investigation into Skinner’s past actions was part of a broader effort to address and expose historical clerical abuse cases.

As a result of his conviction, Skinner is now subject to a lifetime registration as a sex offender, a measure designed to monitor and restrict his movements and activities to protect the public. The case also underscores the persistent issues of sexual misconduct within religious institutions, echoing similar scandals that have emerged in Ireland, Chile, and other parts of the world, which continue to cast a shadow over the church’s reputation and accountability.