ABDUL RAZAQ SENTENCED IN BRADFORD FOR ABUSE IN SKIPTON

In August 2012, a Bradford Crown Court judge commended the victims whose courageous testimonies led to the conviction of Abdul Razaq for his heinous crimes committed in Skipton. Razaq, a 57-year-old grandfather from Greenfield Street, Skipton, was sentenced to eight years in prison for a series of sexual abuses committed decades ago.

Razaq showed no visible emotion as he was led from the dock to the cells. The court heard that he was a self-styled community leader who had systematically and deliberately gained the trust of a six-year-old boy in the mid-1970s, abusing him persistently over two years. His crimes only stopped when the boy’s father caught Razaq molesting his son under a blanket in the backyard.

Decades later, Razaq, who had married and become a father, targeted a second victim— a ten-year-old girl— nearly 20 years after the initial abuse.

Judge David Hatton QC addressed Razaq directly, stating, “You remained in the area, you remained a predator.” The judge explained that Razaq had undressed and molested the girl on at least eight separate occasions, having targeted her between the ages of 10 to 12.

The court noted that Razaq used treats and manipulative tactics to gain the confidence of the girl’s family, enabling him to abuse her in various locations, including an attic, a derelict house, and the backyard.

Judge Hatton praised the victims for their “bold and responsible decision” to come forward and pursue justice, acknowledging the immense stress placed on the man, now in his forties, as he recounted his experiences in court. The female victim, now in her late 20s, also shared how the abuse adversely affected her emotional well-being and ability to form close relationships, despite her professional success.

As part of the sentence, Razaq was subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order with no time limit, prohibiting any unsupervised contact with children. He is also required to sign the sex offenders’ register.

Razaq was convicted on seven counts, including five of indecent assault and one of indecency with the boy, along with a charge related to a course of conduct involving indecent assault on the girl.

Following the verdict, both victims praised the police for their efforts. Detective Constable Alison Whitwell, who led the investigation, stated, “Abdul Razaq preyed upon these poor, defenseless children for his own sexual gratification. He robbed them of their childhoods, and his depraved actions have had a lasting impact into their adult lives. It is very satisfying that Razaq has finally been made to face his sick crimes.”

She added, “This case demonstrates that it is never too late for victims to come forward. Offenders can never rest easy knowing they may be pursued even decades later.”

DC Whitwell expressed her hope that the court’s decision would bring some comfort to the victims and their loved ones, commending their immense courage throughout the process and wishing them well as they rebuild their lives after this traumatic ordeal.