Leslie Smith Jailed for 33 Years Over Horrific Child Abuse Spree
A 70-year-old Manchester man has been locked up for 33 years after a shocking 20-year reign of terror abusing six children. Leslie Smith, formerly of Forest Bank, was slammed with a heavy sentence today at Manchester Crown Court following a dramatic trial in August 2025.
Brutal Abuse Lasted Over Two Decades
Smith was found guilty of 17 rapes and 14 indecent assaults. The court heard how he subjected his victims in Oldham to near-daily abuse over more than 20 years. The scale and cruelty of the crimes stunned everyone in the courtroom.
Ex-Wife Facing Charges Before Her Death
Smith’s ex-wife, Lynda Smith, was also charged for playing a part in some assaults. However, she died of natural causes in 2023, aged 61, before she could face justice. Their joint abuse shook the local community to its core.
Survivors’ Courage Praised by Police
“The strength and courage of the survivors in this case cannot be acknowledged sufficiently,” said Detective Inspector Clare Harrison, Senior Investigating Officer. “The scale and severity of the abuse is unimaginable, leaving a lasting impact on those who have heard the evidence. This is only a glimpse of the trauma endured.”
Police confirmed the 33-year sentence means Smith is likely to spend the rest of his life behind bars. DI Harrison added the survivors have reclaimed power over their lives, leaving Smith utterly broken.
Community Shock and Continued Support
The case shook Oldham and deeply affected the officers and jury involved. DI Harrison praised the “dedication, professionalism, and compassion” of everyone who faced the harrowing evidence.
Greater Manchester Police encourages other victims of sexual abuse to come forward, stressing that support is available no matter how long ago the offences happened.
Need Help? Where to Turn
- Report offences to GMP online or call 101.
- Get confidential support from St. Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) and Rape Crisis England & Wales.
