PAUL LEACH SEX OFFENDER FROM BOLTON-UPON-DEARNE SENTENCED AFTER HORRIFIC HOME ASSAULT IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Bolton-upon-Dearne, a man named Paul Leach, aged 62, has been sentenced to prison following a heinous sexual assault committed against a woman who had welcomed him into her home. The incident took place during the Christmas period of 2018, a time traditionally associated with family and togetherness, but was marred by Leach’s betrayal of trust.

On March 12, Sheffield Crown Court heard the details of this distressing case. The prosecution revealed that Leach, residing at Willowcroft, Dearne Road, Bolton-upon-Dearne, Rotherham, was invited by his friend to spend Christmas Eve with her and her family. The woman, whose identity is protected for legal reasons, had extended the invitation to ensure he would not be alone during the holiday. However, what was meant to be a gesture of kindness and companionship turned into a nightmare for her.

According to prosecutor Nicola Quinney, Leach was allowed to sleep in her bed as a gesture of friendship, given the limited sleeping arrangements in her home. Yet, shortly after she had gone to bed, Leach moved towards her and committed a sexual assault. She detailed that he touched her genitals and then penetrated her vagina with a finger, an act that she described as both shocking and deeply violating. The judge, David Dixon, condemned Leach’s actions as “horrendous and disgraceful,” emphasizing the betrayal of trust involved. He stated, “You as a man thought you were entitled to chance it to try and see what you could get.”

Judge Dixon further criticized Leach’s breach of responsibility, noting that the victim had allowed him into her home and her bed during a time meant for celebration and family bonding. “You let her down in the worst possible way,” the judge remarked, highlighting the gravity of the offense.

The victim, who cannot be named publicly, was visibly affected by the assault. She froze during the attack and confided in her family about what had happened on Boxing Day. The following day, police interviewed Leach, who initially denied the allegations. Despite his previous reputation as a man of good character, Leach eventually pleaded guilty to sexual assault by penetration on the day of his trial.

The woman, who had a history of a violent partner, described the lasting impact of the assault. She revealed that she was so distressed that she could not eat or sleep and that her daily life continues to be affected. She expressed discomfort whenever she encounters individuals in high-visibility jackets similar to those Leach used to wear. Her mental health struggles include anxiety attacks, depression, and difficulty communicating, which have necessitated ongoing medication and counseling.

She shared her feelings of betrayal, saying, “I loved and trusted Paul as a good person and a friend and could not believe he breached that trust.” Her sense of security was shattered, and she described her home as feeling like a prison after the incident. Fortunately, she has recently moved house, which has provided some relief from the trauma.

Judge Dixon addressed Leach directly, condemning his actions and the profound impact they had on the victim. “You as a man thought you were entitled to take advantage of this woman and you did and the impact on her has been monumental,” he stated. In light of the severity of the offense, Leach was sentenced to 72 months in custody, a sentence reflecting the seriousness of his crime and the damage inflicted on the victim.