MICHAEL LESKO THORNABY SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED AFTER SHOCKING ASSAULT AND VOYEURISM INCIDENT

A disturbing case of sexual assault and voyeurism involving a man from Thornaby has come to light, revealing the troubling actions of Michael Lesko. The incident unfolded when Lesko, who was heavily intoxicated at the time, sexually assaulted a woman and subsequently took unauthorized photographs of her without her consent.

Over a span of just two minutes, Lesko managed to capture six images of the woman, who appeared to be asleep during the ordeal. The victim was unaware of the photographs being taken, which added to the trauma she experienced. The details of the case only emerged when police officers, during a routine arrest, discovered the images on Lesko’s phone. It was at this point that the full extent of his misconduct was uncovered.

Michael Lesko, aged 29, from Russell Walk in Thornaby, was initially charged with sexual assault and voyeurism. During the legal proceedings, Lesko admitted to the crimes, although he claimed to have little recollection of taking the photographs, stating that he ‘struggles to remember taking the images’. Despite his claims of amnesia, his legal representatives acknowledged that he must have been responsible for the images, as they were found on his device.

In court, Lesko’s defense lawyer, Shaun Dryden, explained that his client has since taken steps to address his issues, including quitting alcohol entirely. Dryden emphasized that Lesko was ‘drinking heavily’ on the night of the incident, which may have contributed to his actions. The court was also informed that Lesko, who is currently receiving benefits, is undergoing therapy to help him deal with underlying problems.

During the sentencing hearing at Teesside Crown Court, Judge Aisha Wadoodi described the impact of the assault on the victim, stating that she felt ‘violated and betrayed’ following the attack. The court sentenced Lesko to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years, meaning he will not serve time unless he commits another offense within that period. Additionally, a restraining order was issued, prohibiting Lesko from contacting the woman for the next seven years. He was also ordered to register as a sex offender for the next ten years and to complete 35 days of rehabilitation activities.

Detective Lewis Hill from Cleveland Police’s Cyber Crime Unit commented on the case, acknowledging the distress caused to the victim. He praised her resilience and courage in coming forward. Hill also urged the public to report any similar incidents, assuring that specially trained officers are available to support victims around the clock. Reports can be made online via the Cleveland Police website or by calling 101, ensuring victims receive the help they need in a safe and supportive environment.