Yorkshire sex offender who committed ‘appalling offences’ against a young girl is jailed

Between 2020 and 2023 David Gray, 50, from Batley, sexually assaulted a young girl before being reported.

Gray was reported in January this year which  led to an immediate investigation by dedicated Kirklees child safeguarding detectives and West Yorkshire Police.

Gray was swiftly arrested following the report and then charged.

He pleaded guilty after admitting to committing two serious sexual assaults against the young girl at a hearing at Leeds Crown Court in June, and was remanded in custody for sentencing.

Gray was jailed for 18 years and eight months at Leeds Crown Court on Thursday (August 29).

Investigating officer Detective Constable Natalie Green, of the Kirklees District Child Safeguarding Unit, said: “Gray clearly poses a significant danger to young children, and we welcome the strong sentence handed down by the court.

“The appalling offences he committed against a young victim has affected he deeply, and starkly illustrates the dreadful impact these crimes have on victims.

“I would personally like to thank the victim and her family for their courage and strength during the investigation and for coming forward and speaking of the crimes committed by Gray.  

“We continue to urge victims of sexual assault to come forward, no matter when the offending took place. 

“All reports will be thoroughly investigated by our specially trained officers who will also provide you with support throughout.”