ALI HASSAN AND HIS DISTURBING INDECENT EXPOSURE IN DURHAM
| Red Rose Database
Durham Sexual Abuser
A young man identified as Ali Hassan, aged 18, from Musgrave Gardens in Durham, has been found guilty of a series of disturbing indecent exposure incidents targeting women in public spaces near the River Wear. His reckless and inappropriate actions, which involved deliberately exposing himself to multiple women for sexual thrill-seeking purposes, have caused widespread concern and distress among his victims as well as within the local community.
The investigation into Hassan’s conduct began after police officers collected evidence from the scene. Authorities retrieved an empty packet of Haribo sweets and a discarded till receipt from a secluded riverside path that Hassan frequented. These items were instrumental in tracing the timeline of his actions. Specifically, the sweet packet and receipt provided clues leading police to a specific shop where the items were purchased. Further investigation involved checking CCTV footage, which ultimately confirmed Hassan’s involvement in the offences.
It was revealed that between April and June of the previous year, Hassan repeatedly targeted women who were jogging or exercising near notable landmarks such as the Durham Rowing Club and the Maiden Castle sports complex. According to reports, he would often wear only his running shoes during these episodes and would hide in nearby bushes, spying on women before exposing himself to them. This pattern of behavior persisted over several months, leaving many women feeling shocked and fearful.
The police apprehended Hassan following the collection of physical evidence and subsequent identification through CCTV footage. During an appearance before magistrates in Newton Aycliffe, Hassan pleaded guilty to six separate counts of exposing himself, a conviction that reflects the severity of his actions.
Victims and witnesses provided impact statements during the court proceedings. Many described their reactions to the incidents, emphasizing how unsettling the experience was. One witness remarked, “I was quite shocked especially since media reports came out that this is not a one-off incident – it makes it more creepy.” Another victim shared her ongoing fear, stating, “I’ve not returned to the area to run as a result of this incident. I’ve never seen anything like what I saw that day. I’m scared to be in that area and when I walked nearby recently, I felt on edge. It’s disturbing.” These statements underscore the lasting psychological effects these encounters had on the victims.
The court also considered the reactions of Hassan’s family, who expressed their shock and disappointment over his behaviour but maintained their support for him. Defense solicitor Stephen Andrews highlighted Hassan’s youth and lack of prior criminal history, describing his actions as “naivety and immaturity” typical of an 18-year-old. Andrews emphasized that there was no evidence indicating Hassan performed sexual acts in front of his victims, nor did he make threatening remarks or attempts to intimidate them.
As part of his sentencing, Hassan received a two-year community order and was required to register as a sex offender for five years. The court also imposed restrictions, including a ban on being within five meters of the River Wear in Durham and a requirement that he wears at least one item of clothing over his underwear when in public places. Additionally, Hassan was ordered to pay court costs amounting to £85 and a victim surcharge of another £85.
Following the sentencing, Hassan expressed remorse for his conduct. Speaking to the Northern Echo, he stated, “I would like to apologise for my foolish behaviour. I am guilty of this and take full responsibility. It was nothing but stupid and immature. I really regret what I’ve done and that’s not an excuse at all. It was a mistake and I really just want to get on with my life after I serve my punishment. I’m getting the help I need.” His sincere apology underscores his acknowledgment of the seriousness of his actions and his intent to seek assistance moving forward.
The investigation into Hassan’s conduct began after police officers collected evidence from the scene. Authorities retrieved an empty packet of Haribo sweets and a discarded till receipt from a secluded riverside path that Hassan frequented. These items were instrumental in tracing the timeline of his actions. Specifically, the sweet packet and receipt provided clues leading police to a specific shop where the items were purchased. Further investigation involved checking CCTV footage, which ultimately confirmed Hassan’s involvement in the offences.
It was revealed that between April and June of the previous year, Hassan repeatedly targeted women who were jogging or exercising near notable landmarks such as the Durham Rowing Club and the Maiden Castle sports complex. According to reports, he would often wear only his running shoes during these episodes and would hide in nearby bushes, spying on women before exposing himself to them. This pattern of behavior persisted over several months, leaving many women feeling shocked and fearful.
The police apprehended Hassan following the collection of physical evidence and subsequent identification through CCTV footage. During an appearance before magistrates in Newton Aycliffe, Hassan pleaded guilty to six separate counts of exposing himself, a conviction that reflects the severity of his actions.
Victims and witnesses provided impact statements during the court proceedings. Many described their reactions to the incidents, emphasizing how unsettling the experience was. One witness remarked, “I was quite shocked especially since media reports came out that this is not a one-off incident – it makes it more creepy.” Another victim shared her ongoing fear, stating, “I’ve not returned to the area to run as a result of this incident. I’ve never seen anything like what I saw that day. I’m scared to be in that area and when I walked nearby recently, I felt on edge. It’s disturbing.” These statements underscore the lasting psychological effects these encounters had on the victims.
The court also considered the reactions of Hassan’s family, who expressed their shock and disappointment over his behaviour but maintained their support for him. Defense solicitor Stephen Andrews highlighted Hassan’s youth and lack of prior criminal history, describing his actions as “naivety and immaturity” typical of an 18-year-old. Andrews emphasized that there was no evidence indicating Hassan performed sexual acts in front of his victims, nor did he make threatening remarks or attempts to intimidate them.
As part of his sentencing, Hassan received a two-year community order and was required to register as a sex offender for five years. The court also imposed restrictions, including a ban on being within five meters of the River Wear in Durham and a requirement that he wears at least one item of clothing over his underwear when in public places. Additionally, Hassan was ordered to pay court costs amounting to £85 and a victim surcharge of another £85.
Following the sentencing, Hassan expressed remorse for his conduct. Speaking to the Northern Echo, he stated, “I would like to apologise for my foolish behaviour. I am guilty of this and take full responsibility. It was nothing but stupid and immature. I really regret what I’ve done and that’s not an excuse at all. It was a mistake and I really just want to get on with my life after I serve my punishment. I’m getting the help I need.” His sincere apology underscores his acknowledgment of the seriousness of his actions and his intent to seek assistance moving forward.