A brave 17-year-old girl, who sadly passed away from cancer, left behind diary entries revealing the horrific truth of sexual abuse she suffered as a child. This young woman, whose courage has helped bring her abuser, Leonard Rickard, to justice, disclosed her tragic story to her mother, sparking a police investigation that led to his imprisonment.
Rickard, aged 76 and from Barry, exploited his position of trust when the girl was just seven, starting his abuse while babysitting her. The manipulative actions began in a seemingly innocent setting, leaving a lasting impact on his victim. As her health declined, she found the strength to confide in her mother, detailing the abuse in her diaries. Despite her illness, she bravely came forward with these revelations, ensuring Rickard faced the consequences of his actions in court.
The court heard chilling details of the abuse, including Rickard’s attempts to manipulate the young girl into silence, playing on her innocence and shame. In her powerful statement, the girl’s mother shared the deep anguish and guilt her daughter felt, despite being the victim of such horrific acts. She bravely voiced her daughter’s story in court, emphasising the lasting impact these events had on their family, and expressing hope that other potential victims find the strength to speak out.
Rickard was sentenced to over six years in prison with an additional year on licence and is subject to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order. Despite his solitary existence and health issues, the impact of his crimes made this sentence inevitable. The courage of this young girl and her mother has not only brought him to justice but also aims to prevent Rickard from hurting anyone else ever again.
This emotional story highlights the power of speaking out and the relentless strength of a young woman who used her final days to ensure her abuser was held accountable, offering a glimmer of hope to other survivors seeking justice.