ROBERT MCCLEERY'S SHOCKING SEXUAL ABUSE IN LEEK: COACH JAILED FOR FOUR YEARS FOR GROOMING SCHOOLGIRL
In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Leek, Staffordshire, Robert McCleery, a football coach, has been sentenced to four years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing a young girl.The incident, which came to light in September 2011, revealed a pattern of manipulation and exploitation carried out by McCleery, who was previously involved in coaching girls and women at Leek CSOB.
According to court proceedings, McCleery, aged 51 and residing on Brookfield Road in Ipstones, had engaged in a grooming process with the underage girl, which culminated in a sexual relationship.
The court heard that he had bought her presents as a means of establishing trust and affection before taking her to the Roaches, a well-known natural area near Leek, for sexual activity while she was still under the age of 16.
Details from the trial revealed that McCleery was manipulative and possessive, employing emotional blackmail to maintain control over the girl.
Prosecutor Adem Muzaffer described how McCleery would call her ‘sexy,’ ‘gorgeous,’ and ‘beautiful,’ and they exchanged numerous text messages that further cemented their inappropriate relationship.
The girl, feeling ashamed and angry, often expressed her desire for the encounters to stop.
However, McCleery would threaten to harm himself or inform her parents about their relationship, effectively coercing her into silence.
It was also disclosed that concerns about McCleery’s conduct had been raised years earlier.
Staffordshire FA had been alerted to suspicions regarding his relationship with a minor approximately three years prior to his arrest.
Similarly, Leek CSOB had received similar concerns, but no action was taken at that time, allowing McCleery to continue his coaching duties at the club.
The court heard that the sexual relationship between McCleery and the girl began in 2008 and persisted regularly over subsequent years.
The prosecution highlighted the emotional toll on the victim, who felt dirty, ashamed, and betrayed.
Despite her protests and attempts to end the relationship, McCleery continued to exert influence over her, using emotional blackmail and threats to maintain control.
McCleery was arrested in September after the girl confided in a friend, prompting police intervention.
He subsequently pleaded guilty to three charges related to sexual activity with a child and inciting a child to engage in sexual acts.
His defense, represented by Catherine O’Reilly, emphasized his previous good character and expressed remorse for his actions.
His family was reportedly shocked and appalled by his behavior.
Judge Paul Glenn sentenced McCleery to four years in prison, with the possibility of serving up to half of that term before being released on license.
Additionally, he will be registered as a sex offender for life, disqualified from working with children indefinitely, and barred from participating in activities involving minors.
The judge emphasized the seriousness of the offenses, noting the manipulative nature of McCleery’s conduct and the significant period over which the abuse occurred.
He also expressed sympathy for McCleery’s family, acknowledging that they are victims as well.
As a result of his conviction, McCleery’s reputation has been severely tarnished, and the community of Leek remains deeply affected by the revelations of his misconduct.
