In 2023, the Offender Database recorded that Lee Webster, then 39, of Middlesbrough, was jailed for six years for a campaign of systematic sexual abuse against a child. On appearing at Teesside Crown Court on 18 September 2023, the defendant was sentenced for 13 counts of sexual offences, including sexual activity with a child and inciting a child to engage in sexual activities. It was reported that the abuse began during the initial lockdown period and continued for a lengthy duration before a third party reported the crimes.
The investigation established the predatory nature of Webster’s behaviour, which extended into his community roles. Cleveland Police reported that Webster had been coaching a girls’ football team prior to his incarceration. The prosecution reported that while on bail for child rape and awaiting sentencing, Webster had also begun dating a nursery teacher who had a young daughter, highlighting a persistent pattern of seeking proximity to children.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The court reported that Webster’s abuse was despicable and systematic, occurring over several years. Teesside Magistrates’ Court heard that Webster pleaded guilty to almost all charges in July 2023 after the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) authorised 14 counts against him. The investigation established that detectives from the Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adults (CAVA) unit provided extensive safeguarding and support measures for the victim and family throughout the detailed enquiries.
Detective Sergeant Claire Baker noted the immense bravery and inspirational nature of the young victim during the lengthy investigation. For his actions in Middlesbrough, Webster was handed a six-year prison sentence. The judge noted the gravity of the offences and the breach of trust involved, placing Webster under a lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and a restraining order to protect the survivor and the public.
Status and Statutory Requirements
For the crimes reported in England, the status of Lee Webster is as follows:
- Custodial Sentence: Six years in prison (2023).
- Release Date: Scheduled for 16 September 2026.
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements were activated for life.
- SHPO Status: Lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order in effect.
- Restraining Order: Indefinite order protecting the victim.
- Judicial Oversight: Sentenced at Teesside Crown Court following a Cleveland Police investigation.
- Criminal Record: Sexual activity with a child; Inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.
- Origin: Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Webster is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by the police and the National Probation Service in Cleveland. Due to the nature of his conduct in Middlesbrough, which involved grooming through sports coaching and targeting a family while on bail, his management upon release in September 2026 will be subject to the highest level of scrutiny. Authorities state that his lifetime SHPO is a vital tool to ensure he is subject to stringent conditions and permanent monitoring.
As a member of the Sex Offenders Register for life, Webster must comply with all notification requirements regarding his identity and residence. Authorities state that his history of child exploitation in North Yorkshire necessitates permanent vigilance. Any future attempt to coach youth sports, enter into relationships with individuals who have children without disclosure, or engage in inappropriate behaviour in Middlesbrough or elsewhere will result in immediate arrest and a return to the court system for further incarceration.
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