LESTER JACKSON'S SHOCKING ATTACK IN HIGHBURY: SEX OFFENDER STRIKES NEAR SCHOOL

In a disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves through the Highbury community, Lester Jackson, a 48-year-old known sex offender, carried out a violent assault on a young girl as she was walking to school. The incident took place in broad daylight last June on Highbury Hill, where the 13-year-old victim was approached by Jackson. According to reports, Jackson initially asked her for directions to the nearest park, seemingly innocent at first glance. However, the situation quickly escalated when Jackson suddenly grabbed her, attempting to force her into a nearby alleyway on Coach House Lane.

Once there, Jackson pulled the girl to the ground and made an aggressive attempt to kiss her, an act that left her visibly distressed. Her screams for help pierced the quiet of the neighborhood, drawing the attention of a nearby resident. The neighbor responded swiftly, intervening physically to fight Jackson off. The attacker then fled along Highbury Hill, leaving the scene in a hurried escape.

The young girl immediately reported the assault to the police, providing a detailed account of the terrifying encounter. Law enforcement officials launched an investigation, and forensic analysis played a crucial role in identifying Jackson as the perpetrator. Investigators recovered glasses at the scene, which bore Jackson’s fingerprints, linking him directly to the attack. Further forensic work connected these glasses to a burglary that had occurred on Leigh Road, where Jackson had broken into a property following the assault.

Jackson’s criminal history and recent activities complicated his case. He was found in prison after violating parole conditions related to a previous offense. His return to incarceration was a result of these violations, and he was subsequently brought to trial. During the court proceedings, Jackson pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including sexual assault, burglary, and common assault. The court sentenced him to a total of six years in prison—four and a half years for the sexual assault, 15 months for the burglary, and three months for the assault.

Detective Constable Ben Lucas described Jackson as a dangerous individual who committed a random and unprovoked attack, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance. He also praised the neighbor whose quick action and bravery potentially prevented an even more serious assault from occurring. The incident was brought before Blackfriars Crown Court, where the judge acknowledged the neighbor’s heroism with a formal commendation.

The court’s decision aims to deliver justice for the young victim and to serve as a warning to others about the consequences of such violent behavior. Jackson’s actions have caused significant emotional distress to the victim, and the court’s sentence seeks to provide some measure of closure and reassurance to the community of Highbury.