Leslie Smith

Leslie Smith, born on 18 February 1955, carried out a prolonged campaign of sexual abuse against six children in Oldham, Greater Manchester, spanning approximately two decades. The offences, which included 17 counts of rape and 14 counts of indecent assault, occurred almost daily and involved subjecting the victims to severe and repeated sexual violence.

The investigation into Smith's actions was conducted by Greater Manchester Police, leading to his arrest and subsequent trial at Manchester Crown Court. In August 2025, following a comprehensive trial, Smith was found guilty on all charges. The court proceedings revealed the harrowing extent of the abuse, with evidence demonstrating the profound and lasting impact on the survivors. Smith's wife at the time, Lynda Smith, was also implicated in the offences and charged with sexual crimes; however, she passed away in 2023 at the age of 61 from natural causes before her case could be resolved.

On 5 January 2026, Smith was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court to 33 years' imprisonment. Detective Inspector Clare Harrison, the Senior Investigating Officer, highlighted the unimaginable scale and severity of the abuse, stating: 'The strength and courage of the survivors in this case cannot be acknowledged sufficiently. Despite the profound trauma inflicted by this man, the survivors have shown immense courage, determination and resilience throughout the investigation and trial.' The survivors' compelling testimonies were instrumental in securing the conviction, ensuring that Smith would likely spend the remainder of his life behind bars.

This case underscores the commitment of Greater Manchester Police to pursuing justice for victims of sexual abuse, with the force emphasising the bravery required to come forward and the support provided to those affected.