AZAM HALEEMDEEN FROM CRAWLEY JAILED FOR ABUSING TWO YOUNG GIRLS IN BRIGHTON AND CRAWLEY

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Crawley, Azam Haleemdeen, a 37-year-old cleaner, was convicted of a series of heinous sexual offenses involving two young girls. The crimes spanned several years, during which Haleemdeen exploited the trust of his victims to carry out systematic abuse.

Haleemdeen’s actions came to light after the victims, who are legally protected and therefore unnamed, finally found the courage to confide in their teachers in October 2019. The disclosure prompted immediate action from educational authorities and law enforcement agencies. The police swiftly responded, arresting Haleemdeen on the very same day the allegations were reported.

The trial, held at Brighton Crown Court, revealed that Haleemdeen had committed a total of 12 counts of sexual assault against the two girls. The abuse reportedly began when the victims were very young children and continued into their teenage years, highlighting a prolonged period of exploitation. The court heard how Haleemdeen, originally from Broadwalk, Crawley, had ingrained himself into the girls’ lives, using his position and familiarity to carry out his sickening acts.

Following a thorough trial, Haleemdeen was found guilty of all charges. The court sentenced him to 13 years in prison, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the impact on the victims. The judge emphasized the importance of justice for the victims and the need to protect others from similar offenses.

Haleemdeen, a Sri Lankan national, is now serving his sentence behind bars, and the case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and reporting in safeguarding vulnerable children from abuse.