BASHIR HAJI PRESTON LEISURE CENTRES SEX OFFENDER BAN
In a recent case heard at Preston Crown Court, Bashir Haji, a 49-year-old man from Preston, has been subjected to a significant ban from all leisure centres across Lancashire following a disturbing incident involving sexual misconduct.The court's decision comes after Haji admitted to a charge of sexual assault, just as his trial was scheduled to commence, highlighting the seriousness of his actions and the court's response.
According to prosecutor Claire Larton, the incident took place at Fulwood Leisure Centre in Preston on June 4 of the previous year.
During this incident, Haji was observed groping a young man who was relaxing in the sauna.
The victim, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, was subjected to unwanted physical contact by Haji, an act that has now led to criminal proceedings.
Following his arrest, Haji was taken into custody and subsequently appeared before the court.
Haji, who resides on Newton Street in the Deepdale area of Preston, was ordered by Judge Andrew Woolman to provide his address details to the police for the next ten years, a requirement that underscores the court’s concern over his potential risk to the public.
The judge acknowledged that Haji’s contact with the victim was brief, lasting only a few seconds, but emphasized that Haji’s prior convictions for sexual offences significantly worsened his case.
These previous convictions contributed to the court’s decision to impose a custodial sentence.
In light of his guilty plea, Haji was sentenced to 15 months in prison, though this sentence was suspended for two years.
The judge made it clear that any breach of the court’s conditions would result in immediate imprisonment.
During the sentencing, Judge Woolman issued a stern warning, stating, “This is not the first time you have been in trouble.
I hardly need to spell out to you what will happen if you breach the terms of your sentence.
You will definitely go straight to prison.” Furthermore, the judge expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of probation measures in Haji’s case, suggesting that his behavior might be influenced more by familial pressures than by rehabilitation efforts.
He warned Haji that unless he learns to control his impulses and keep his hands to himself, he risks facing lengthy imprisonment in the future.
The court’s decision reflects a firm stance on protecting the community from individuals with a history of sexual misconduct, especially those who continue to pose a threat despite previous convictions.
