Leslie Fletcher, a 76-year-old individual from Washington, Tyne & Wear, has been sentenced to nearly six years in prison after pleading guilty to a series of sexual offences. The case came to light when Google and Microsoft detected the sharing of indecent images on their platforms, prompting an extensive investigation by the Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT).
Following his arrest, Fletcher’s electronic devices were confiscated and subjected to forensic examination by digital investigators. The examination yielded substantial evidence, including incriminating conversations where Fletcher sought explicit photographs and videos of children, as well as records of calls with individuals involved in child abuse. The offences were found to have taken place between June 2020 and July 2021.
Fletcher, residing in Brancepeth Close, faced a total of 13 charges, including making indecent images of children, arranging child sex offences, and attempting to cause a child to engage in sexual activity. Notably, seven of the charges related to Fletcher’s involvement in arranging the abuse of children overseas.
At Newcastle Crown Court, Fletcher was sentenced to five years and nine months in custody. In addition to the custodial sentence, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order was issued, and his electronic devices were confiscated. Fletcher is also required to register as a sex offender.
