A dangerous sex offender who groomed three young girls before raping one of them at least five times has been jailed for 18 years.
Michael Lee-Ingle, 33, of Sherwood, Nottingham, subjected the three girls to a catalogue of abuse over more than a decade. Witness impact statements read in court described how his abuse had "stolen the childhoods" of his victims, leaving them with suicidal thoughts.
Lee-Ingle groomed one girl who was in primary school at the time, between 2011 and 2017, and raped her on at least five occasions. The second victim was sexually assaulted when she was also aged under 10. The court heard he incited a third victim into sexual activity.
Offending came to light in 2022
Lee-Ingle's offending came to light in September 2022 when he was confronted and fled from his home. When he was arrested and his devices seized, detectives found two extreme videos on his phone.
He eventually 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.
Extended sentence and protective orders
At Nottingham Crown Court on Thursday (13 August), he was handed an extended total jail sentence of 18 years. He was also added to the Sex Offenders' Register for life and made the subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
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.
"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.
"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."
If you have been affected by any themes in this story, you can call Rape Crisis for free 24 hours a day on 0808 500 2222. You can also visit the website to start a free online chat.
