HAFIZ RAHMAN FROM PORTSMOUTH JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON TEENAGE GIRL
In November 2010, a deeply troubling case unfolded involving Hafiz Rahman, a 67-year-old man from Portsmouth who was once regarded as a respected Muslim cleric.Rahman was sentenced to a year in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl for whom he was supposed to be providing religious instruction, specifically teaching her the Qur'an.
Rahman, who had previously served as an Imam at the Jami Mosque in Portsmouth, had taken on the role of a Qur'an teacher after stepping down from his position as an Imam.
Families in the community had entrusted him with their children, believing in his reputation and standing within the Muslim community.
However, the trust placed in him was shattered when he visited the victim's home and committed the assault while they were alone together.
The incident was described by the presiding judge, Roger Hetherington, as the 'worst breach of trust imaginable.' The judge emphasized that the attack could have continued had the victim's father not unexpectedly returned home, preventing further harm.
The case was swiftly brought to trial at Portsmouth Crown Court, where a jury composed of eight men and six women deliberated for less than two hours before returning a guilty verdict on charges of sexual activity with a child.
During the sentencing, Judge Hetherington highlighted the gravity of Rahman's actions, noting that the victim's parents had sought his guidance because of his esteemed reputation as a community leader and a revered religious figure.
The judge stated, 'On the jury's verdict and on abundant evidence, for whatever reason, you took advantage of that situation for your own sexual gratification.' He further remarked on the profound impact of the assault on the young girl, describing it as a frightening and traumatic experience.
The judge also pointed out the severity of Rahman's breach of trust, given his respected position within the Muslim community and the respect he had garnered from the family.
Despite acknowledging that Rahman had generally behaved properly throughout his life and may have contributed positively to others, the judge condemned this incident as a terrible lapse in judgment and morality.
Stephen Smyth, representing Rahman, stated that the conviction marked the end of Rahman's standing in the community.
He explained that Rahman would face deportation back to a Muslim country, as the conviction would be viewed very seriously there.
Smyth expressed a bleak outlook for Rahman’s future, asserting, 'He has nothing to look forward to in his life,' underscoring the devastating consequences of his actions and the loss of his reputation.
