STOKE-ON-TRENT MAN BARZAN ZANA AVOIDS JAIL AFTER SEX WITH 15-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In a case that has drawn significant attention in Stoke-on-Trent, Barzan Zana, a 23-year-old man originally from Stoke-on-Trent who now resides in London, was involved in a sexual relationship with a teenage girl just days before her 16th birthday. The incident was brought to light during proceedings at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, where Zana faced charges related to his conduct.

According to court reports, Zana met the girl through an online platform, where initial contact was made. During the course of their communication, the girl falsely claimed to be 19 years old. Despite this misrepresentation, Zana continued their relationship, believing her to be of legal age. It was only later that he discovered her true age, but by that point, their relationship had already progressed.

The court heard that in February, Zana stayed at the girl’s address in Stoke-on-Trent, and during this visit, they engaged in sexual activity on multiple occasions. Notably, this occurred just four days before the girl’s 16th birthday, raising serious legal and moral questions about the nature of their relationship. Further, in May, Zana returned to the girl’s home after she managed to secretly bring him in, but their secret was uncovered when her brother discovered him.

Throughout the proceedings, Zana pleaded guilty to engaging in sexual activity with a child. His legal representative, Mark Connor, argued that the relationship was consensual and that the girl had actively encouraged the sexual encounters. Connor emphasized that the girl had initiated contact and had claimed to be 19, which led Zana to believe he was engaging with an adult.

He stated, “He had no reason to doubt her,” and explained that Zana had intercourse with her under the belief she was of legal age, despite knowing she was only 15 at the time. Connor also highlighted that the sexual activity took place very close to the girl’s 16th birthday, suggesting that the circumstances might warrant a departure from standard sentencing guidelines. Additionally, he pointed out that Zana had already served the equivalent of an eight-month sentence while on remand.

In his sentencing, Judge Robert Trevor-Jones decided on a 12-month prison term, which was suspended for two years. Zana was also ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid community work. Furthermore, he will be registered as a sex offender for five years and is prohibited from working with children. The court’s decision reflects the serious nature of the offense, balanced against considerations of Zana’s circumstances and the fact that he had already served a significant period in custody.