A woman who was sexually abused as a child has helped convict a serial sex offender of further offences after seeing news of his other crimes. Leon Bowes was already serving life imprisonment with a minimum of 17 years behind bars after being convicted on 20 November 2024 of 25 offences against three women. Yesterday (Thursday 16 July), at Leicester Crown Court, he was found guilty of a further four sex offences against another victim – who was 12 and 13 at the time of the offending. He has been ordered to serve another four years – taking his minimum term in prison from 17 years to 21 years. The victim, who is now in her 30s, contacted police on 21 November 2024 after reading the news of Bowes’ conviction on Leicestershire Police’s Facebook page. She reported knowing Bowes during 2007 and 2008 and during that time they had engaged in sexual activity on multiple occasions. At the time Bowes was 17 and 18 and was aware the victim was under the age of consent. Following a thorough investigation of the new offences, Bowes was charged with two counts of rape of a girl under 13, and two counts of sexual activity with a child. He has been found guilty of all four offences. DC Josh Evans, from the force’s specialist rape and sexual assault team, is the officer in the case. He said: “This case highlights the significant impact that media coverage and public appeals can have in encouraging victims and survivors to come forward, even many years after abuse has taken place. “The victim in this case told me she came forward after seeing our reporting of Bowes’ crimes against the other women. “She had never disclosed what had happened to her as a child but seeing other women had made reports and recognising her own experiences in the coverage of the case, it gave her the courage to call police. “By reporting what had happened to her we were able to investigate the further offences and present that evidence before the courts. “Although Bowes is already in prison, it was vital we did everything we could to ensure this victim got the justice she deserves. “I want to thank her for having the confidence to tell us about what happened to her nearly 20 years ago. Even though at the time she did not see that Bowes’ actions were wrong, she now realises he took advantage of her as a young vulnerable girl and groomed her for his own sexual gratification. “I hope this conviction will help encourage any further victims of Bowes to come forward or any victims of sexual assault. No matter how much time has passed, we are here to listen to you and to help and support you.” Further information can be found by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences Leicestershire Police News - Published: 12:48 17/07/2026

A driver has died after he was involved in a collision in Desford yesterday afternoon (Thursday 16 July). The collision occurred at 4.15pm on Lindridge Lane and involved a white Ford Transit towing a trailer and a grey Volkswagen ID3 Life car. The Ford Transit was travelling away from Desford, towards Merry Lees and the VW was travelling in the opposite direction when the collision occurred. The 56-year-old driver in the Volkswagen sustained serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. No one else was injured. A 22-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, he has since been released under investigation pending further enquiries. Officers from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) are investigating the collision and appealed for anyone who witnessed the incident, saw either vehicle beforehand, or has relevant dashcam footage to contact them. Anyone with any information is asked to contact DC 4484 Alison Briance on 101 or via www.leics.police.uk, quoting incident 502 of 16 July. Leicestershire Police News - Published: 12:05 17/07/2026

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has this week introduced a new policing performance system in England and Wales where Leicestershire Police has been placed in the top tier for performance. The policing inspectorate has assigned these performance levels to all forces as part of a drive to support improvements across policing and increase public confidence and accountability. The tiers range from Level One (highest) to Level Four (special measures) for the most significant performance issues. The policing performance system aims to strengthen how force performance is assessed and provide earlier support when improvements are needed. The new system was announced in the police reform white paper and will see forces made accountable to the Home Secretary for performance. Ministers and the inspectorate will also have new powers to intervene directly in failing forces. If there are performance concerns, such as poor police response times or victims not receiving the service they deserve, the Home Secretary, through the College of Policing, will send in experts from across policing to help them improve. Forces have also been set targets on neighbourhood policing levels, 999 response times and incident response times through the new police performance framework. T/Chief Constable David Sandall said: “We do want to thank all our partners who continue to support us in our collective ambition to have a safe and thriving Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland and thank all those people who continue to support us in a positive way. “From those that step forward to support their local officer, those that volunteer to support their local police, to those that highlight the good work and service regularly seen and experienced, to those that feedback on our approach and those that help problem solve and make a positive difference in so many different ways in their local area. “This Tier 1 placing is a testament to the hard work of all the officers and staff who work for Leicestershire Police, responding every single day to emergencies, saving lives and continuing to reduce crime and solve more crime. “However, we are not complacent. I continue to stress that our current financial landscape is extremely challenging. “The force has managed to maintain the delivery of the service whilst managing the poor funding context, further reductions in resources, service and facing extremely demanding and challenging circumstances, with increased policing of protest activity, increasingly high levels of demand and sentencing act changes meaning more criminals released from prison earlier. “This is a credit to the good people who work here, officers, staff, PCSOs and volunteers who strive every day to keep you safe and to do a good job for the public, and this is a positive reflection on the collective work with partners and local communities across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.” Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews welcomed the news, saying: “I hope that residents and businesses are reassured to see Leicestershire Police recognised in the top tier under the new performance system. “The real test though will be maintaining those standards and continuing to improve the service residents receive, particularly in the current challenging financial circumstances. “This grading is a credit to the commitment, dedication, hard work and professionalism of our police officers and staff. We are all aware however that there is no room for complacency. “My priority remains preventing crime, rebuilding community policing and seeing offenders brought to justice to keep people, families, businesses and communities safe.” Leicestershire Police News - Published: 11:46 17/07/2026

A man who cause major disruption to Loughborough Town Centre on Tuesday morning and then later on the same night, caused more disruption and road closures in Leicester City Centre on Belgrave Gate has been charged. Loughborough These two incidents happened on Tuesday morning, 14th July, when the man was reported on a rooftop in Loughborough town centre, triggering a major emergency response and closing the town centre, causing loss of trade to around 20 shops and disruptions to bus travel and the general public. Loughborough Later on in the evening, another incident was reported in Belgrave Gate, Leicester, near the Haymarket, where emergency services were deployed again, and a police cordon was put in place, preventing access in and out of the car park and access to the Haymarket Bus Station and surrounding roads. Belgrave Gate in Leicester Belgrave Gate in Leicester A spokesperson from Leicestershire Police said Lewis Rudkin, 23, of Southampton Street, has been charged with two counts of intentionally/recklessly causing a public nuisance. Rudkin was arrested following the incident in Loughborough and was dealt with by way of a community resolution. Following his arrest for the incident in Leicester, he was then charged in connection with both. The charges relate to two incidents in High Street in Loughborough and Belgrave Gate in Leicester on Tuesday (14 July). Rudkin is due to appear at Leicester Magistrates' Court this morning (Thursday 16 July). Pictures by Leicester Media Online

The government has confirmed that from April 2028 there will be two unitary councils to deliver all services to residents in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. The government has announced its decision on local government reorganisation for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Three proposals to reorganise the existing 10 councils were put forward and considered by government. It has been confirmed that from April 2028 there will be two unitary councils to deliver all services to residents in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Those councils will be: A unitary council covering Leicester, Oadby and Wigston and parts of Blaby, Charnwood, and Harborough A unitary council for the remaining area of Leicestershire and Rutland This map. may help you understand the new areas. All council services are continuing as usual and further updates will follow. There is no need for residents to do anything at this time. Any significant changes will only come into effect in 2028. A website has been developed. to help keep residents informed about local government reorganisation in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. It has been established by all 10 councils and further information will be added to it in the coming weeks and months. Following the announcement, the Leader of Leicestershire Council, Dan Harrison, issued this statement. The Government has published more information in a parliamentary statement.. In addition, there is also a supporting press statement. from the Government. Leicestershire County Council News - Thursday, 16 July, 2026

A decision to expand Leicester City has been branded ‘a disastrous day for democracy’ by Leicestershire County Council’s leader. Today, the government has announced it's opting for two unitary councils for the area – one covering an expanded Leicester and one serving the rest of Leicestershire and Rutland. Reacting to the news, Councillor Dan Harrison said: “I’m furious, shocked and bitterly disappointed. “We’ve always been clear that an expanded city would be costly and disruptive. Financially and strategically, this is madness and it’s not the right decision for Leicestershire. ​ “This is a disastrous day for democracy. No one wanted this.​ “No professional oversight has been given to the effect on Leicestershire residents of the city’s land grab and our residents haven’t been listened to.” The government wants to move away from ‘two tier’ local government and asked councils to work up final plans for change by last November. The government consulted earlier this year and says new councils will come into effect from April 2028. Councillor Dan Harrison, leader of Leicestershire County Council said: "We’ll be taking legal advice on launching a challenge to government to make sure residents are at the heart of the decision. ​ Our professional officers will get on with the job. But this is reckless and we’ll continue to fight for those residents who’ve been let down by the government today. " Leicestershire County Council News - Thursday, 16 July, 2026 ​

PCC funds crackdown on stolen tools following thefts from tradespeople’s vans and work sites A major new crackdown on the sale of stolen power tools at car boot sales has been launched across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, directly in response to a rise in thefts from tradespeople’s vans and work sites across the country. Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has invested almost £54k in Operation Generator to tackle the growing problem, which has seen tradespeople targeted by criminals stealing tools essential to their livelihoods and then attempting to sell them on locally. The multi-agency operation is focussing on disrupting the resale of stolen property, particularly at car boot sales, where intelligence and community feedback suggest some stolen tools and other property are being traded. The initiative comes after ongoing concerns raised by tradespeople and the wider public to the PCC about the theft of tools from vehicles and sites, and the devastating financial and emotional impact these crimes have on victims. Working with key partner agencies, Leicestershire Police is delivering an intelligence-led and preventative approach to disrupt the routes used by offenders to dispose of stolen goods. Officers have already identified six priority car boot locations across the force area for the first phase of the operation. Activity includes high-visibility patrols, engagement with sellers and buyers, the distribution of crime prevention advice and free property marking kits, alongside a targeted public awareness campaign. In the final phase, the force will carry out targeted enforcement activity at key locations, including joint operations with partners such as Trading Standards, to disrupt offenders, recover stolen property and tackle wider criminality. These efforts form part of wider work to address burglary and acquisitive crime in the area, with a particular focus on protecting tradespeople who rely on expensive equipment to earn a living. Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews said: “Tool theft is not a minor inconvenience: it is a direct attack on people’s livelihoods. Too many tradespeople across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland have had tools stolen from their vans and work sites, leaving them unable to work and support their families. “This operation is a direct response to those concerns. We know that stolen tools are often sold on quickly, sometimes in plain sight within our communities. That is completely unacceptable. “I refuse to allow organised criminals to profit from the misery they cause. By targeting the places where stolen goods are sold, we are cutting off the market that drives this crime in the first place. “Alongside enforcement, we are also making sure the public understands that buying stolen goods, even unknowingly, supports criminal networks. If we reduce demand, we reduce theft.” The Commissioner’s investment is funding overtime costs for officers and PCSOs to carry out patrols at selected sites, ensuring the operation does not detract from core neighbourhood policing. Funding will also support the distribution of SmartWater property marking kits and home security kits, as well as a high-profile communications campaign reinforcing the risks and consequences of handling stolen goods. The aim of the operation is to reduce the theft and resale of high-value items, particularly power tools, protect tradespeople, deter offenders and prevent future offences by removing the opportunity for criminals to profit. Residents are also being encouraged to play their part by taking simple preventative measures, including marking property and reporting suspicious activity. Heading up the operation, Inspector Neil Whittle said: “This operation sends a clear message that Leicestershire Police is committed to tackling the sale of stolen goods and disrupting those who seek to profit from crime. Through targeted enforcement, visible patrols and engagement with traders and the public, we aim to protect our communities, support victims and make it increasingly difficult for offenders to operate across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. “We have already seen positive results during the first week of the operation, and in the coming weeks we will be increasing patrols and strengthening our work with partner agencies to identify offenders, gather intelligence and further reduce opportunities for criminals to profit from theft.”

Leicester’s historic and outdated city boundaries will be extended as part of the biggest shake-up of local government in over 50 years. The city council has welcomed the news as part of the Government’s decision on local government reorganisation for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. In its announcement today (16 July), the Government confirmed that from 1 April 2028 there will be two unitary councils to deliver services to residents across the city, county and Rutland. Those councils will be: A new unitary council for Leicester, Oadby and Wigston and parts of Blaby, Charnwood and Harborough. A new unitary council for the remaining area of Leicestershire, as well as Rutland. The decision follows a government consultation launched earlier this year. Responding to the announcement, City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: “The sensible expansion of Leicester’s historically constrained boundary was always our preferred option for the Government’s reorganisation of local government in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. “Leicester has grown dramatically over the last century, and the boundary extension confirmed by Government will finally reflect that growth. “This is by no means an exceptional measure. In the 1970s, many English cities had their boundaries extended. Leicester wasn’t one of them. As a result, we have been one of the most tightly constrained major cities in the UK. “The Government’s decision to extend the city’s boundary will belatedly bring us into line with other cities, removing the illogical and confusing split that exists in our built-up urban area. “It will give people who live in the surrounding areas, just beyond the existing border, a much greater say in the governance and future of the city which will be good for local democracy. “These two new, larger unitary authorities will deliver more efficient and cost-effective council services in ways that better reflect where people live and will support the future growth and prosperity of both our city and county. “We will be working closely with other councils to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible for both residents and staff.” An implementation team, comprising of senior officers from all affected councils, together with joint councillor committees for each new council, will lead the transition to the two new unitary authorities. Local elections for the two new, larger councils will take place in May 2027. Councillors elected will then lead on setting up the new councils, operating in a 'shadow’ capacity until vesting day on 1 April 2028. This is when the existing city, county and district existing councils will be dissolved and the new, larger councils will officially take over. In the meantime, all existing councils will continue to operate as normal, with no change to how residents access services. To stay informed and follow the latest updates, visit www.leicester.gov.uk/lgr LCC News - 16th July 2026

Land that has been leased to the Holiday Inn in Leicester city centre for more than 50 years is to be sold to the hotel’s operator. Leicester City Council has agreed to sell the ground lease for the site – the land on which the Holiday Inn stands – for £1.8million, plus a £20,000 contribution towards the council’s professional fees. The 37,996 sq ft plot at St Nicholas Circle was leased to the original proprietor on a 99-year lease back in 1971, soon after the 194-bed hotel was built on the site. Since then, the site has been leased to the hotel operator in exchange for an annual ground rent – currently set at £11,750 per annum. City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “The purchase of this freehold will bring benefits for the hotel operator, but the terms that have been agreed also represent a very good deal for the city. “This capital receipt will make a welcome contribution to our general fund, helping to support the services that people in Leicester depend on.” Picture caption: a view of the Holiday Inn's construction site, 1960s LCC News 15th July 2026

Leicestershire residents can benefit from a range of bus offers this August, including £1 fares, half-price FoxConnect journeys and completely free journeys for children. Whether visiting Bradgate Park, Twycross Zoo, the 1620s House and Garden, Melton Museum or Beaumanor Hall, residents and visitors can take advantage of the offers to explore more of Leicestershire by bus during summer. Children aged between 5-15 will be able to travel for free on selected bus services throughout August, including on FoxConnect. Adult single fares on all Leicestershire County Council supported services will also be reduced to just £1, helping families save even more on summer days out. Passengers using the on-demand transport service FoxConnect who are over 16 will benefit from 50% off all journeys when they book via the app or by phone across all 11 of its operating zones. Councillor Andrew Hamilton-Gray, cabinet member for highways and transport at Leicestershire County Council said: “We’re delighted to be offering these discounts to help people travel more affordably during the summer holidays. “These summer bus promotions are a great opportunity for residents and visitors to leave the car at home, make use of local transport and enjoy the many attractions, towns and villages that Leicestershire has to offer. “Whether it's family days out, visiting friends, shopping locally or exploring somewhere new, we hope the opportunity for children to travel completely free, and our reduced fares will help people make the most of the summer holidays." More information, including participating operators, eligible bus services and full terms and conditions, can be found on the Choose How You Move Leicestershire County Council News 15th JULY 2026

Free museum entry, children’s activities and family fun will be on offer in Leicester this weekend, as the Friends of Jewry Wall Museum invite everyone to join them for a special day of celebration. On Saturday 18 July, The Friends will be marking the first anniversary of the newly reopened museum - and bringing their own remarkable 22-year journey to a close. Jewry Wall is what remains of a 2nd century bath house and is one of the largest civic Roman ruins in the United Kingdom. Originally opened as a museum in 1966, it was reopened on the 26th July 2025 after a multi-million-pound programme of restoration and refurbishment. The Friends of Jewry Wall Museum were formed in 2004 for the improvement and promotion of Jewry Wall Museum and the Roman bath house site in Leicester. Over the years they’ve won a volunteering award, successfully brought in Heritage Lottery funding and welcomed more than 150 members. Now, though, as the newly refurbished museum celebrates its first anniversary, the Friends are beginning a new chapter. Samantha Glasswell from the Friends of Jewry Wall said: “In the past few years we have lost key members of our committee and have been unable to replace them. With great sadness, we decided it was time to say goodbye! “That is not quite the end of the story, though. Some of us have become volunteers at Jewry Wall, and some support Heritage Sundays at St Nicholas Church, and will continue under the name Jewry Wall Living History. “As we move on, we would like to invite everyone to come and share our love of Jewry Wall with a day of celebration.” From 10am until 4pm on Saturday, Jewry Wall Museum will offer free entry for all to explore the museum and discover Leicester's ancient history, with free hands-on activities for children. City mayor Peter Soulsby said: “I want to thank the Friends of Jewry Wall Museum for the huge contribution they have made over the years. Their dedication and enthusiasm has helped us to preserve our city’s extraordinary 2,000-year history and important Roman heritage. They will be much missed, but I’m delighted that some of the Friends will still volunteer with us at the museum and church, sharing their considerable knowledge with visitors.” Assistant city mayor for culture, Cllr Vi Dempser, added: “This celebration day is a great chance for people to come along and enjoy Jewry Wall Museum – and it will all be free. We offer huge thanks to the Friends of Jewry Wall Museum for all their support over the years.” A visit to Jewry Wall Museum usually costs £12.50 for adults and £6 for children, with family tickets and concessions available. All tickets provide visitors with a Roman Explorer Pass, which gives return access to the museum for a whole year. Subject to conditions, people can book as many visits as they like in a 12-month period, enjoying special events and re-enactment activities without having to pay again. Find out more click below Pictures and Video by Leicester Media Online LCC News 15th JULY 2026

In October 2023 a 20-year-old man was subjected to a serious sexual assault in a city park. Today (Wednesday 15 July) the perpetrator was jailed. During the afternoon of 9 October, the victim was sitting on a bench in Abbey Park when he was approached by 43-year-old Islamuddin Talash. The pair briefly spoke about bicycles, with Talash telling the victim he had one that he was willing to give him. Talash then suggested they went to his flat so the victim could look at it. However, while they were walking through the park, Talash took the victim into a bush and raped him. Shortly before the incident two teenage boys became suspicious of Talash and his behaviour. They were able to capture footage and an image of him on their phones. The witnesses decided to keep an eye on them and approached the bushes. Talash ran away and they were able to safeguard the victim. An officer working with the investigation team decided to walk through the park and on doing so saw a man fitting the description and image of the suspect sitting on a bench. He was arrested in the park and following further enquiries and medical evidence he was charged with rape. During a trial at Leicester Crown Court last month, Talash of Westfield Road in Smethwick, was found guilty of rape. He was sentenced to six years' imprisonment and placed on the sex offender register indefinitely. Detective Sergeant Sarah Jones was the officer in the case. She said: “The actions of the witnesses on that day were crucial in this investigation, they did absolutely the right thing by acting on their suspicions. “They, along with the victim, deserve enormous credit for giving an account in court that led to today’s outcome. “The two boys were able to provide an image and footage which assisted officers in getting a positive identification. An officer who was working within our team took it on herself to do a walk-through the park and immediately spotted a man and recalled his similarities to the man in the image provided by the witnesses. “He was arrested straight away and charged within hours. This outcome is a testament to the great work that went into the investigation and the strength of evidence secured this result. “The victim was vulnerable, and the defendant used this for his own sexual gratification. We hope that this case reassures the local community and helps the victim put the events of that afternoon behind him.” There are several different agencies who can offer independent help and support to victims of sexual offences in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Further information on these services and details on who to contact if you have been a victim of a sexual offence can be found by visiting Leicestershire Police News - Updated: 14:42 15/07/2026