Leicestershire Man Jailed For Plying Teenagers With Drugs

15 April 2015, 18:54 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

A man's been jailed for 8 years after he gave drugs to teenagers, some as young as 14, in Leicestershire.

Police say 42-year-old Paul Smith from Coalville plied the girls with drugs to take advantage of them.

What he'd done came to light when one of the teenager's told social workers.

He pleaded guilty to five drug related offences and four counts of supplying drugs to the girls who were aged between 14 and 17 at the time.

At Leicester Crown Court yesterday (Tuesday 14 April) the Smith was sentenced to eight years in prison.

Detective Constable Gav Collins, who has investigated the incident, said: “Smith took advantage of young girls and plied them with drink and drugs for his own sexual gains.

“These incidents have had a lasting effect on the victims. Smith was aware of the girls’ vulnerability and in spite of this gave them alcohol and drugs.

“All of the victims have shown tremendous courage in coming forward and speaking to the police.

He continued: “We believe there could possibly be more victims of Smith who have not yet come forward and contacted us and I would urge them to do so now, so we can investigate fully and offer appropriate support.

“I would like to reassure anyone that does contact us that their report will be treated with the upmost sensitivity with specialist officers and social workers on hand to support and assist victims.”

The case came to light after concerns were raised by Leicestershire County Council’s after one of the teenager's spoke to their social care team.

A Leicestershire County Council spokesperson, said: “The young people in this case have shown tremendous bravery throughout the investigation, and I’d like to commend them for their courage.

“We are committed to listening to young people and taking their experiences seriously, and have supported them and their families throughout.”