Leslie Collett, a 74-year-old Newport man sentenced to 12 years in prison for the rape and indecent assault of a schoolboy, has died in custody. He passed away at HMP Usk on June 27, six years into his sentence.
Conviction and sentence
In July 2020, Collett pleaded guilty at Cardiff Crown Court to two counts of rape of a male under 16 and three counts of indecent assault on a boy under 16. The offences occurred between August 2000 and August 2003. He was sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment and made subject to a sexual harm prevention order, as well as being required to register as a sex offender indefinitely.
Death in prison
The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman confirmed Collett's death and stated that an investigation is in progress. The specific cause of death has not been disclosed.
Police statement
Detective Constable Christie Radford, the investigating officer, said after the sentencing: "This sentence reflects the seriousness of the crimes Collett has committed against a vulnerable child. His actions have had a devastating effect on his victim which have remained with them into adulthood." Radford commended the victim's strength and courage and reassured the public that all sexual offence allegations are treated seriously and investigated thoroughly, with support available from police and partner agencies.
