David Leslie Crowley

A former priest, David Leslie Crowley, has been sentenced to a total of eight and a half years in prison for committing multiple sex offences against young boys decades ago. The 69-year-old, currently residing at HMP Full Sutton near York, pleaded guilty to nine counts of indecent assault and six counts of indecency with a child, affecting five different victims.

The offences occurred in two distinct periods: between 1982 and 1984, and between 1991 and 1995, in the areas of Settle, Huddersfield, and Bradford. These locations span North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire, where Crowley exploited his position of trust as a priest to perpetrate the abuse. The victims were all young boys at the time, and the case highlights the long-lasting impact of historical sexual abuse.

Crowley was interviewed in connection with these crimes in August 2021 while already serving a custodial sentence in prison for similar offences. His guilty plea was entered prior to the sentencing hearing at Leeds Crown Court on Monday, 19 June 2023. The court imposed a sentence of seven years and six months' imprisonment, followed by a one-year extended licence period to be served after his current sentence concludes. This additional term ensures further supervision upon release.

Detective Constable Suzanne Hall from North Yorkshire Police's Non-Recent Abuse Investigation Team commented on the case, stating: "Crowley's appalling offences were committed decades ago - but the passage of time cannot ease the pain and anguish suffered by the victims." She praised the victims' courage and emphasised that it is never too late to report such abuse. Similarly, Detective Inspector Oliver Coates from West Yorkshire Police's Kirklees Child Safeguarding Unit noted the comprehensive investigation into the West Yorkshire offences, adding: "This conviction follows a lengthy and comprehensive investigation by DC Moorhouse into the West Yorkshire offences. It ensures that this dangerous man will remain behind bars where he belongs."

The joint efforts of North Yorkshire Police and West Yorkshire Police underscore their commitment to pursuing historic sexual offences, providing justice for victims regardless of the time elapsed since the incidents.