LESLEY HANSEN FROM APPLEDORE SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IMAGE OFFENSES IN EXETER

In April 2017, a case was brought before Exeter Crown Court involving Leslie Hansen, a 62-year-old man from Market Street, Appledore, who faced serious allegations related to the possession of indecent images of children. Hansen, a former lifeboat crew member with the RNLI, was found to have downloaded a small number of child abuse images during a period when he was under the influence of alcohol, a situation he attributed to his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from his service.

According to court reports, Hansen’s online activity was traced through his IP address after authorities received intelligence indicating he had been accessing illegal images. The police discovered that he possessed a total of 11 images or videos depicting children aged between six and 12 years old. Among these, five were classified as the most severe category, showing serious abuse inflicted by adults. Hansen admitted to the charges, acknowledging that he had downloaded these images while intoxicated and that he could not recall the specific circumstances of his actions.

During the proceedings, the prosecution, led by Miss Felicity Payne, emphasized that Hansen’s behavior was a breach of the law, but also highlighted his background as a dedicated lifeboatman. Hansen explained to police that he was shocked and horrified by his own conduct, which he attributed to his PTSD and the emotional toll of his rescue missions. He stated that he was searching for adult material when he inadvertently came across the child abuse images.

Hansen’s personal circumstances were also discussed in court. His marriage has ended, and he is currently in the process of selling his home. It is anticipated that he may have to move into a mobile home with his dogs, as he prepares for a significant change in his living arrangements. His defense lawyer, Mr. Richard Crabb, requested that the court consider a probation report suggesting that Hansen would benefit from one-on-one rehabilitation treatment to address his issues.

Judge Geoffrey Mercer, QC, presided over the case and decided to show leniency given Hansen’s background and character. He sentenced Hansen to a two-year community order, which includes 35 hours of rehabilitation. Additionally, the judge imposed a sexual harm prevention order, allowing authorities to monitor Hansen’s internet activity for the next five years. Hansen was also placed on the sex offenders’ register for the same period.

In his remarks, Judge Mercer acknowledged Hansen’s service and the sacrifices he had made, stating, “I have read about your background and your service with the lifeboats. You have lost a great deal already. You stand before me as a man of good character and you will never be able to say that again. You are ashamed of what you have done and against the background of what I have read, I believe a community order is the right disposal.”