Leon Gresswell

Leon Gresswell, a 39-year-old man from Ovenden in Calderdale, West Yorkshire, was sentenced at Bradford Crown Court for committing four counts of voyeurism after he concealed a camera in a bathroom to record females without their consent.

The case came to light when Gresswell accidentally dropped his phone in woods near his home. A neighbour found the device and, while attempting to identify the owner, discovered disturbing images on it. Concerned by the content, the neighbour contacted the police, leading to Gresswell's interview. During questioning, Gresswell admitted to recording the images and confirmed they were for his sexual gratification.

Prosecutor Camille Morland outlined the details to the court, highlighting the secretive and invasive nature of Gresswell's actions. Statements from the victims were read aloud, in which they described feeling disgusted, dirty, paranoid, and as though their skin was crawling due to the violation of their privacy.

In mitigation, defence barrister Michael Collins argued that voyeurs often struggle with emotional difficulties in admitting their offences. He explained Gresswell's initial denial as a reflection of the shame and embarrassment he felt, emphasising that Gresswell accepted his behaviour was appalling and took full responsibility.

However, Recorder Smith, sentencing Gresswell, characterised his actions as an entrenched pattern of deviant behaviour marked by a lack of remorse or insight. The judge described the offences as planned, devious, and perverted, noting that Gresswell's intent went beyond what he captured to what he hoped to see. For three counts, Gresswell received 18 months imprisonment concurrently, with an additional eight months consecutively for the fourth count, resulting in a total of 26 months behind bars. Additionally, Gresswell was ordered to register as a sex offender for ten years and subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for the same duration.

The case was reported by Tony Earnshaw, Crime and Court Reporter for The Telegraph & Argus, based on proceedings at Bradford Crown Court.