Repeat sex offender sentenced to 10 years for assaulting teen at NJ motel

NEPTUNE TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A repeat sex offender from New York has been sentenced to 10 years in state prison for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl at a Neptune Township motel in 2023, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Tuesday.

New York Repeat sex offender sentenced

David Leigh, 35, of Auburn, New York, was sentenced Friday by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Natalie S. Watson. Leigh must serve at least five years before becoming eligible for parole. He will also register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law and remain under lifetime parole supervision.

The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office said Leigh met the victim through social media. Investigators confirmed the girl disclosed her age before meeting him in person. In April 2023, Leigh brought her to a local motel, where the assault occurred.

Investigation

Neptune Township Police launched the investigation, which led to Leigh’s arrest in January 2024. A Monmouth County Grand Jury returned a three-count indictment two months later.

During the weeklong trial, prosecutors presented physical and electronic evidence, including the victim’s testimony. On June 26, 2025, the jury returned guilty verdicts after just two hours of deliberation.

New York Repeat sex offender second conviction

This marks Leigh’s second conviction involving minors. In 2016, he admitted to distributing child sexual abuse materials online and was required to register as a sex offender in New York.

Prosecutor Santiago emphasized the importance of digital vigilance and encouraged families to monitor online interactions. Officials continue to urge the public to report suspicious behavior and protect vulnerable youth.