Adam Leddra

Adam Leddra, a 32-year-old man from Rothley, Fatfield, Washington, Tyne and Wear, has a history of sexual offences against underage girls. In 2014, he was sentenced to 20 months in prison for offences involving two teenage girls. On 23 December 2025, at Newcastle Crown Court, Leddra faced further justice when another victim came forward, leading to his latest conviction.

The additional charges stemmed from incidents occurring around the same period as his previous crimes. Leddra admitted to two counts of sexual activity with a child and two counts of causing a child to engage in sexual activity in relation to this third victim. Prosecutor Kate Barnes described how the teenage girl was 'groomed, manipulated and sexually exploited' by Leddra, highlighting the predatory nature of his actions.

In a powerful impact statement read by the victim herself in court, now an adult, she confronted Leddra directly: 'Being face to face with you sickens me to my core. For a long time you have got away with what you have done to me.' She detailed the 'emotional torture' she endured, explaining that Leddra used her for 'his own sick and twisted gratification' during her vulnerable years. The woman, who now identifies as a 'survivor' rather than a victim, reflected on realising that 'people can be capable of some incredibly awful things'.

Defending Leddra, Andrew Walker argued that he was much younger at the time of the offences and had undergone a 'transformation' through finding faith, supported by references to his positive character and charitable work. However, Walker acknowledged: 'He can't escape his past.' Recorder Carl Gumsley, sentencing Leddra to 33 months behind bars, noted the use of 'classic grooming behaviour' to target a vulnerable girl and the significant emotional and psychological impact on her.

The case was reported by the Sunderland Echo and involved Northumbria Police, underscoring Leddra's repeated targeting of underage girls in the Washington area.