Personal Injury

Laurence Leonard, a former senior Jesuit brother at St Ignatius’ College Riverview in Sydney, was recently sentenced to nine months in prison for historical child sex abuse. Leonard was found guilty of two counts of indecent assault against a 12-year-old student in the mid-1970s. The incidents occurred while the boy was playing on the basketball courts during lunch or recess.

• Timeline: The abuse occurred in 1974, but it wasn’t reported until 2017. This delay is not uncommon in such cases of historical child sexual abuse, as survivors often struggle with feelings of shame and fear for decades before they find the courage to come forward.
• Position at St Ignatius’ College Riverview: Leonard held a senior position at the school, which gave him significant authority and influence over students.
• Legal Proceedings: Leonard was charged and found guilty of two counts of indecent assault. The court proceedings highlighted the severe breach of trust, given Leonard’s position of authority at the school.
• Impact on the Victim: The victim described the long-lasting psychological impact of the abuse, which affected his personal and professional life. The court acknowledged the survivor’s bravery in coming forward after so many years.
• Institutional Response: Like many institutions, St Ignatius’ College Riverview has faced scrutiny over how it handled allegations of abuse. The case has prompted discussions about better safeguarding measures and support systems for victims.
• Community Involvement: He was involved in various school activities and had a reputation for being a dedicated educator. This made the revelations of his misconduct particularly shocking to the community.
• Legal Consequences: Leonard’s conviction and sentencing to nine months in prison for historical child sex abuse have brought attention to the need for accountability and justice for survivors of abuse.

If you or someone you know has been affected by the institutional child sexual abuse at St Ignatius’ College Riverview, it is crucial to seek justice and compensation. Our team at Koffels Solicitors and Barristers is here to support you every step of the way. With expertise in handling historical institutional child sexual abuse cases, we are committed to ensuring that survivors receive the justice they deserve.