Man jailed for New Year party rape

A man who plied a teenage girl with alcohol at a New Year’s Eve house party and then raped her has been jailed.  

Leigh Moore raped and sexually assaulted the 17-year-old while she attempted to sleep off the effects of the drink at the property in the Glen Parva area of Leicestershire.

Following the attack, the victim reported the incident to police and an investigation commenced by specialist detectives working in the force’s dedicated Signal team.

Today (Friday 19 April), at Leicester Crown Court, the 44-year-old was sentenced to a total of six years and four months in prison.

He was also given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for ten years as well as a 10-year restraining order.

The victim recalled laying down in one of the rooms in the early hours of Monday 1 January 2024 before Moore entered and closed the door and curtains.

As she drifted in and out of consciousness Moore slid his hand into her underwear before climbing on top of her and raping her.

The victim froze and was unable to push Moore off but after reporting to police what had happened, he was arrested from his home address in Whitecross Gardens, Derby.

He initially denied any sexual activity with the victim but after police disclosed they had vital DNA evidence he pleaded guilty to rape and sexual assault by penetration at an earlier hearing.

Leigh Moore

Detective Constable Joseph Elliott, officer in the case, said: “The victim in this case has shown incredible strength in not only reporting the incident to police but to ensure that Moore is sentenced for the crimes he committed.

“Moore took advantage of a young girl in a vulnerable position. He had been providing her with drink throughout the night and so was well aware she was heavily intoxicated. While she tried to sleep, he entered the room and took advantage.

“When arrested by officers, Moore seemed to imply he knew police would be coming for him but despite this when interviewed he denied anything had happened. It was only when he was told his DNA had been found that he admitted the offences.

“I am pleased his admission means the victim does not have to go through the trauma of reliving that night during a trial and I hope now that he is behind bars she can begin to move forward with her life.”