Lee Aunger

Lee Aunger, 37, of Denebridge Row, Chilton, was sentenced to 17 years in prison at Teesside Crown Court on Friday, 22 May 2025, following his conviction at Durham Crown Court in early March. Aunger was found guilty of one count of rape, seven counts of sexual assault, and one count of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity against a young girl.

Prosecutor Dan Cordey told the sentencing hearing that the jury verdicts mean Aunger now qualifies as “an offender of particular concern”. The victim impact statement revealed that the child had “struggled at school as a result and could not focus on her lessons” as a direct consequence of Aunger’s abuse.

Defending Aunger, Caroline McGurk said her client maintains his denials but “respects the jury’s decision, notwithstanding the devastation it has caused him”. She highlighted that Aunger was of previous good character, had been in long-term employment, and was spoken highly of in numerous character references.

Judge Nathan Adams condemned Aunger for attacking the child “for his own sexual gratification” and described the sentence as “appropriate for the great harm caused” to the victim, who he said is still “struggling to impact what happened to her”. The judge added: “I’m sure that will be the case for a long time.”

Aunger must serve at least two-thirds of the 17-year term before being eligible to apply for parole and will only be released if the Parole Board deems it safe. Upon release, he will be subject to registration as a sex offender for life, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order lasting 25 years, and a restraining order protecting his victim for the same period. He has also been referred to the barring service, banning him from ever working with children.