Michael Lee-Ingle, a 33-year-old from Sherwood, Nottingham, has been sentenced to an extended 18-year prison term for a series of sexual offences against three young girls. The offences, which took place between 2011 and 2017, included the rape of a primary school-aged girl on at least five occasions.
Nottingham Crown Court heard how Lee-Ingle groomed his first victim, who was of primary school age at the time, and raped her repeatedly. A second victim was sexually assaulted when she was under the age of 10, and a third had her innocence stolen when Lee-Ingle incited her into sexual activity.
Offending came to light in 2022
Lee-Ingle's crimes were uncovered in September 2022, when he was confronted at his home and fled. He was later arrested, and a forensic examination of his phone revealed two extreme videos. He subsequently pleaded guilty to rape, two counts of sexual assault, two counts of inciting a child into sexual activity, and two counts of possessing extreme images.
During the sentencing hearing on Thursday, August 13, the judge described Lee-Ingle as a dangerous offender, noting that his actions had "stolen the childhoods" of his victims and left them struggling with their mental health.
Victims' bravery praised
Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Emily Bucklow of Nottinghamshire Police said: "The heartbreaking statements from our three victims reveal the ongoing impact Lee-Ingle's offending has had on each of their young lives. They have been subjected to appalling abuse at the hands of Lee-Ingle, who the judge has agreed is a dangerous offender deserving an extended period behind bars."
Bucklow added: "I hope the sentence handed down at least allows the victims and their loved ones to begin the process of moving on with their lives. I'd like to commend them for their bravery in speaking to officers and throughout the court process. Considering their age and the ordeals they have been through, their courage and resilience has been remarkable."
Lifetime on sex offenders register
Lee-Ingle will now be placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for life and made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. Bucklow concluded: "It is thanks to them that Lee-Ingle is behind bars and no longer a threat to other children. The case should also serve as a further example of how seriously our detectives investigate offences of this nature. Victims of abuse will be listened to and protected, and the perpetrators will end up behind bars."
