EDINBURGH PREDATOR PUT VULNERABLE VICTIM THROUGH 'BRUTAL ORDEAL' AFTER NIGHT OUT
A sexual offender who violently assaulted a vulnerable victim in a brutal rape at an Edinburgh flat received a six-year prison sentence.Ahmad Siddique, aged 21, assaulted the teenager after she visited the flat following an evening out.
During the High Court hearing in Edinburgh, a judge remarked to the perpetrator that it was the victim’s "misfortune" to have crossed paths with Siddique that night.
Judge Norman McFadyen KC stated: "You forced yourself on her and raped her in every way possible." He further commented: "This was a prolonged offense committed against a vulnerable victim whose protests you ignored." The judge highlighted the psychological trauma inflicted on her, ordering Siddique, formerly residing on Jane Smeal Lane in Edinburgh, to remain under community supervision for an additional three years on license, with the possibility of imprisonment if he breaches the conditions.
The extended sentence was handed down due to the danger Siddique posed.
Although he had initially denied the offense during the trial, he was convicted of assault and rape on November 21, 2023, during which he made sexual remarks and removed her clothing.
Defence lawyer Wendy Culross told the court that this was Siddique’s first sexual offence conviction.
She mentioned that a report on him indicated he continued to deny the crime but accepted the jury’s verdict.
She added: "While he maintains his innocence, he respects the court’s decision." Mrs Culross emphasized that a custodial sentence was unavoidable but that Siddique would benefit from targeted rehabilitation for his offending.
The incident reportedly occurred impulsively during a night out.
Siddique, who observed the sentencing via a video link from prison, was informed that he will be placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely.
The judge also issued a non-harassment order banning him from contacting or attempting to contact the victim indefinitely.
He was warned: "If you breach this order, you face imprisonment."
