LESLEY RICHARDS FROM DAGENHAM SENTENCED TO 3 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT AND VIOLENCE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Dagenham, Leslie Richards has been sentenced to three years in prison following a series of heinous crimes involving sexual assault and violence. The incident, which took place in January 2021, involved Richards threatening to kill his victim and inflicting serious injuries on her body, including her arms, legs, and chest. These injuries were the result of a brutal attack that was both physically and psychologically damaging.

Richards, who resides on Eastbrook Avenue in Dagenham, was initially charged by Essex Police with multiple serious offenses. The charges included rape, two counts of assault by penetration, engaging in a controlling and coercive relationship, and causing actual bodily harm. Despite the initial charges, Richards entered not guilty pleas to all of these allegations. However, as the case progressed, he changed his stance, and shortly before the trial scheduled for January 2024, he pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by penetration and causing actual bodily harm. These pleas were accepted by the court, leading to his conviction.

The criminal acts began with Richards threatening to kill his victim and physically assaulting her, resulting in injuries that required medical attention. Following the assault, he forced her to perform a sexual act, which he recorded and subsequently shared on a mobile application. This act of sharing the video was a critical element in the investigation, as it allowed authorities to identify both Richards and his victim. A vigilant member of the public, who came across her profile online, promptly reported the incident to the police, which led to the swift arrest of Richards.

During the police investigation, Richards initially disputed the evidence presented against him and denied the victim’s account of the events. Despite his denials, the evidence, including the video shared on the mobile app, was compelling enough to secure his conviction. Following his sentencing in April 2024, Richards was not only sentenced to three years in prison but was also subjected to an indefinite restraining order. This order is designed to prevent him from contacting the victim in any capacity and aims to protect her from further harm.

PC Winn, who led the investigation, expressed strong condemnation of Richards’ actions. He described Richards as an “appalling and calculated abuser,” emphasizing the extent of control Richards sought to exert over his victim. PC Winn also highlighted the importance of ongoing monitoring, stating, “Richards can now reflect on this in prison, and officers will continue to monitor his behaviour to ensure no one else will be subject to this abuse.” The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by such offenders and the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious activity.