Leeds child rapist who caused ‘unimaginable horror and cruelty’ jailed for 36 years

A sick pedophile who subjected “very vulnerable and very young children” to horrific sexual abuse has been jailed for nearly four decades.

In May 2023, officers from North Yorkshire Police arrested Nathan Woods-Springer, 37, of Sherburn in Elmet, Leeds, in connection with child sex offences.

A number of electronic devices were also confiscated from his home. A search of the seized devices turned up images of Woods-Springer committing sex crimes against children.

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Woods-Springer was charged with six counts of rape and nine counts of child sexual assault. The victims were all very young at the time of the acts. A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said officers ensured specialist victim support was put in place.

Woods-Springer was also accused of taking and making indecent photographs of children, including hundreds of ‘Category A’ images – the most serious category.

He pleaded guilty to all offenses at York Crown Court on 6 September 2023 and 19 February 2024. On Friday 28 June 2024 he received an extended sentence of 36 years.

Chief Inspector Carol Kirk, from North Yorkshire Police, said: “Woods-Springer inflicted unimaginable horror and cruelty on very young and very vulnerable children. His actions are horrific and he is behind bars.

“I would like to pay tribute to the investigative team that brought this harrowing case to court. Their dedication and professionalism ensured that Woods-Springer faced justice for his crimes. I would also like to thank the families, carers and professional partners for their support in caring for the victims during what has been a traumatic time. Most of all I praise the courage of the victims.

“I hope the outcome will give victims of any type of sexual abuse the confidence to come forward. It doesn’t matter how long ago it happened, we can and will judge the perpetrators.

“If you are a victim of sexual abuse – or know of children who may be at risk – please report it to the police, whether it’s happening now or in the past. We’ll investigate thoroughly and make sure you get the information and support you need. Your courage in coming forward will protect other people from abuse and help bring criminals to justice.”

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