Islington Gazette > News > Crime
Former carer from Islington used 'position of trust' to abuse children
Sophie Inge
Leslie Paul was found guilty of 17 sexual offences against children - Credit: Archant
A former carer who used his "ultimate position of trust" to abuse those in his care, has been convicted of 17 historical sexual offences against children.
Leslie Paul, 64, of Clephane Road, Canonbury, who is a former carer for Lambeth Social Services, was found guilty on Monday December 21 at Blackfriars Crown Court of offences which included indecent assault and indecency.
The offences were carried out between 1980 and 1988 at Lambeth Children's Home in South Vale, where the four male victims lived.
But it was not until October 2012 that the first came forward to report allegations against Leslie.
An investigation was then launched by detectives from the Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse (SOECA) Command under Operation Trinity.
Further victims were identified as a result of police inquiries and on March 13, 2013, Leslie was arrested at his home in Islington.
One of the officers in the case, DC Suzanne Lister, of SOECA, said: "Paul was responsible for the care of his victims; the ultimate position of trust. He used that power to take advantage and commit the most serious of crimes against them.
10 'Graffiti vandal' linked with £500k worth of damage caught in Highbury
"I commend the bravery of the victims who have been forced to relive their experiences in an open court. It is their testimonies which have brought Paul to justice today, and I hope they take some comfort from that."
She urged anyone who believes they have suffered sexual abuse to contact the police.
"If anyone believes they have been a victim, I would urge them to contact the Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command on 020 8217 4921. We have specially trained officers who are here to listen, investigate, and bring offenders to justice.
"Alternatively you can contact police via 101. In an emergency always dial 999."
Leslie is due to be sentenced on January 14.