HANIFI SAHIN FROM AMESBURY SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In April 2014, a man identified as Hanifi Sahin, who was residing illegally in Amesbury, was sentenced to prison for engaging in sexual activities with a young girl aged just 13. The case drew significant attention due to the circumstances surrounding the offender's immigration status and the nature of his relationship with the victim.

Hanifi Sahin, aged 24 at the time, had maintained a relationship with the girl for approximately two months before her school authorities uncovered the inappropriate conduct. The relationship was initiated through social media platform Facebook, where Sahin and the girl connected and socialized before the abuse began. It was later revealed that Sahin had approached the girl through a mutual friend, and their interactions escalated into a sexual relationship that was both troubling and illegal.

When police apprehended Sahin, he attempted to conceal his identity by providing a false name. Further investigation uncovered that he possessed forged documents, including a Bulgarian passport, a driving license, and an identity card, all of which were counterfeit. It was established that Sahin had originally entered the United Kingdom legally as a student in 2010 but had overstayed his visa by approximately two years, making his stay illegal.

During the court proceedings at Salisbury Crown Court, Sahin’s defense lawyer, Roderick Hine, explained that his client was initially hesitant to pursue a relationship with the young girl. Hine emphasized that Sahin, influenced by his cultural background, believed it was customary to seek parental approval before engaging in a relationship. He stated that Sahin had communicated with the girl’s mother, presented gifts, and made genuine efforts to become involved with her family. The defense argued that Sahin’s actions were motivated by a desire for affection and companionship, rather than solely sexual intent.

Despite these explanations, Sahin was found guilty of two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child. He also admitted to committing an additional offense of sexual touching, along with three immigration violations and a charge of criminal damage. The latter involved writing his name on a cell wall while in custody, demonstrating a lack of remorse and further misconduct.

Judge Andrew Barnett addressed Sahin directly, highlighting the severity of the case. He remarked that the law in the UK is designed to protect individuals from exploitation and harm, especially those who are vulnerable. The judge emphasized that the young girl’s background made her particularly susceptible to psychological harm, which may have lasting effects. Barnett stated, “We will never know what psychological harm has been done to that girl; you and you alone are responsible for that.”

As a result of his convictions, Sahin was sentenced to 21 months in prison. Additionally, he was prohibited from having unsupervised contact with any female under the age of 16 for a period of five years. He was also ordered to remain on the sex offenders register for ten years and was required to pay a victim surcharge of £100. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of his offenses and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable minors from predatory behavior.