'I continue to feel scared': Leeds man jailed for 21 months after victim details devastating impact of assault
Anthony Higo, 43, has been sentenced to 21 months in prison at Leeds Crown Court after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a young girl
A Leeds man has been jailed for 21 months after being convicted of sexually assaulting a young girl.
Anthony Higo, 43, was sentenced at Leeds Crown Court on August 5, after being found guilty of sexual assault by touching.
Higo has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register and made the subject of both a Restraining Order and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
The court heard the profound effect of Higo’s actions through a victim personal statement.
The statement read: "This incident has had a significant impact on my wellbeing and daily life.
“It affected me so much that I often couldn't sleep properly and would stay awake all night. Sometimes, I couldn't get myself out of bed for school.
“Even when I did manage to fall asleep, I would wake repeatedly throughout the night.
"I continue to feel scared when I am home alone, particularly if someone knocks at the door. I always fear that it is him, despite knowing that he is not allowed to come near my home."
The matter was first reported to West Yorkshire Police in 2024, prompting an investigation by child safeguarding detectives that led to Higo’s arrest and subsequent prosecution.
Speaking after the sentencing, DC Heather Richmond of West Yorkshire Police commended the bravery shown by the young victim throughout the investigation and legal process.
She said: “ The survivor in this case has shown genuine bravery and determination in coming forward and then supporting a prosecution against this man.
"We hope seeing him imprisoned can bring them some comfort and we continue to urge all victims of sexual offending to contact us, whether recent or non-recent, so we can create safer communities."