Man jailed for attempting to rape 14-year-old girl

A man has been jailed for sex offences committed against a child.

Leon Ward, 49, of New Addington, appeared at Croydon Crown Court where he was sentenced to 10 years’ in prison, to serve six years and eight months custodial, and the remainder on licence for the attempted rape and sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl.

He will also be on the sex offenders register for life.

Ward had previously been convicted at the same court on Friday, February 10.

The court heard how Ward had befriended the child in May 2020 when he had seen her in New Addington.

Further to some chance meetings, Ward soon began texting the victim and asking her to send compromising pictures of herself, which she did not send.

On Monday, May 18, 2020 the victim agreed to meet Ward for a walk into the woods, during which Ward assaulted her and attempted to rape her.

Ward was arrested later that day and was charged on November 10, 2021 with attempted rape of a 14 year old girl, three counts of sexual assault by penetration, two counts of sexual assault by touching and sexual communication with a child.

All offences were committed against the same victim.

Detective Constable Jamie Munro, the investigating officer, said: “Ward took advantage of a vulnerable young girl, believing that she would not tell anyone.

“Thankfully he was wrong. I applaud the bravery of the victim in coming forward.

“Her actions may have saved other potential victims from suffering the same offences.

“Identifying and apprehending those who commit violent offences against women and girls is a priority for us, and I urge anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence to speak to police, at the very least to ensure you are supported.”

Pictured top: Leon Ward (Picture: The Met)