UK mom says she killed pedophile neighbor because he abused her 12-year-old son

In a shocking case, a UK mom pleaded guilty to the murder of a pedophile neighbor after finding out he had sexually abused her little boy. This was in revenge, committed in east London where a 38-year-old mother, single and having five children—Sarah Sands avenged on her young son at the hands of the then 77 years old Michael Pleasted.

It was reported that Sands learned that Pleasted had been abusing young boys in the neighborhood, including her own son. The discovery of this abuse led to a confrontation that ended in tragedy.

Sands went to Pleasted’s apartment and stabbed him eight times. She turned herself in to the police afterward and was consequently charged with murder.

The case has raised a debate on vigilantism and the protection of children from sexual predators. Sands’ sons have spoken out in support of their mother’s actions. One of her sons said, “I thought hats off. I’m not going to deny it”. They believe that their mother’s actions may have prevented Pleasted from abusing other children.

“I did what any mother would do because he did this to my son Bradley, my little boy,” Sarah Sands told The Sun.

“I never dreamt I’d be capable. I have no pride in it but at least I know he can’t hurt anyone else. I’m not a bad person but I know I did a bad thing. I’ve never denied that and I’ve been punished,” Sands continued.

It has also brought into question how convicted sex offenders are managed in communities. Sands and her supporters are calling for stronger measures, including not allowing sex offenders the chance of name change to evade detection. Sarah Sands herself said on this matter, “For paedophiles, if you touch children, there has to be consequences. Hiding behind name changes should not be allowed.”

“Mick was a role model. I’d take him meals and we’d chat. I had no reason not to trust him. I thought Bradley was safe,” she said to The Sun.

While the legal system has treated Sands’ actions as a crime, the case has drawn sympathy from many who understand her motivation to protect her child. However, vigilantism is not something sanctioned by the law, and the law provides ways of reporting and acting on suspected child abuse.

“The guilt I felt for not protecting him overwhelmed me. That is when I picked up the knife and went to Mick’s,” she added.

Such a case is a ghastly reminder of the devastating effects of child sexual abuse on families and communities, as well as complicated feelings and actions that may arise out of such events.