ABIOLA RAJI SENTENCED IN STAFFORD FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT NEAR VINE HOTEL

In a serious case that has shocked the community of Stafford, a man named Abiola Raji has been formally sentenced after a disturbing incident involving an attack on a woman near the Vine Hotel on Salters Street. The incident took place around 8pm on Sunday, April 21 of the previous year, and it was only after the victim demonstrated remarkable bravery by reporting the assault to the police that authorities could begin their investigation.

Following a thorough investigation that included appeals for information and detailed analysis of CCTV footage from the area, Staffordshire Police were able to identify Raji as the suspect. His arrest was carried out on May 1, and subsequent court proceedings confirmed his guilt. Raji, aged 32, pleaded guilty to the sexual assault, which led to his sentencing at Stafford Crown Court on Thursday, January 23.

During the sentencing, the court handed down a significant prison term of six years and eight months. In addition to this, Raji was subjected to an extended license period lasting three years and four months, a measure designed to monitor his behavior after his release. Furthermore, he was ordered to be registered on the Sex Offenders Register for life, reflecting the severity of his crime and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.

A police spokesperson publicly commended the victim for her courage in coming forward, emphasizing the police force’s unwavering commitment to supporting victims of sexual offences and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice. The spokesperson stated, "He was sentenced to six years and eight months imprisonment, with an extended license period of three years and four months. He was also put on the Sex Offenders Register for life."

Officers from Staffordshire Police conducted urgent inquiries, including a detailed review of CCTV footage from the area surrounding the Vine Hotel and Salters Street, which ultimately led to Raji’s arrest. The police have reiterated their call for other victims to come forward confidentially, either through the 101 phone line or via the Live Chat service, underscoring their dedication to supporting those affected by sexual offences and their determination to bring offenders to justice.

Support organizations such as The Survivors Trust, the Rape and Sexual Violence Project (RSVP), and West Midlands Police remain available for victims seeking assistance or wishing to report crimes. The police have described Raji as a dangerous sex offender who has now been removed from the community and placed behind bars. They also highlighted the importance of community cooperation in solving such crimes and ensuring safety for all residents of Stafford.