A mother has described her experience as “every parents’ worst nightmare” after setting up surveillance cameras in her home and capturing a child abuser harming her daughter.
Gary Lewin has been sentenced to a 13-year extended term for manipulating and exploiting the teenage girl. The victim’s mother stated that he had “robbed her daughter of her innocence.” Leeds Crown Court heard that the 42-year-old gave the girl gifts like a PlayStation 5, an iPhone, and jewelry, provided her with alcohol and cannabis, and sexually assaulted her.
Lewin, who had previously confessed to various sexual offenses including engaging in sexual activity with a child and encouraging a child to participate in sexual activities, appeared in court via video link from prison for sentencing.
According to prosecutor Leila Taleb, the abuse began in 2024 after Lewin’s release from prison. He showered the girl with gifts and sent numerous messages that resembled a romantic relationship.
The court was informed that Lewin initiated physical contact with the girl, which eventually escalated to sexual acts. The victim reported feeling uncomfortable as he behaved possessively, even smoking cannabis together before engaging in sexual activity.
The girl disclosed the abuse to a family member in February, prompting her mother and the authorities to be informed. The mother had installed cameras in the house, capturing incriminating footage.
Despite being instructed not to contact the girl while on bail, Lewin continued to do so. The girl was found in his company on Valentine’s Day and later at an AirBnB where he had supplied her with alcohol. Lewin denied the allegations, claiming they were fabricated out of revenge.
During the sentencing, the girl’s courageous mother confronted Lewin via video link from HMP Leeds. She described the ordeal as a nightmare that had caused her and her daughter immense suffering, leading to panic attacks and depression. She vowed to support her daughter in her recovery and ensure that Lewin would not harm another child.
Judge Khokhar sentenced Lewin to 12 years in prison and a one-year extended license, with the requirement to serve two-thirds of the term before a Parole Board review. Additionally, Lewin was issued a sexual harm prevention order, a restraining order, and mandated to register as a sex offender.