KAZI ALAM PESTERS 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN TORQUAY AND IS SENT TO PRISON

In a case that has shocked the community of Torquay, Kazi Alam, a 36-year-old man and owner of the Spice Cellar Indian takeaway located on Old Mill Road, was sentenced to a year behind bars after attempting to persuade a young girl to engage in sexual activity with him. The incident took place during a holiday visit to Torquay, where Alam approached the 14-year-old girl in Market Street, a busy area frequented by locals and visitors alike.

According to court proceedings, Alam used what was described as 'persuasion, persistence, and insistence' in his efforts to convince the girl to have sex with him. He approached her with the proposition not only in the street but also at her home or in a park, despite her clear refusal and her informing him of her age. The court was told that Alam, who was born in Bangladesh and has since obtained British citizenship, claimed that his intentions were misunderstood, asserting that he was merely asking for directions to Indian takeaway restaurants in the area. This explanation was dismissed by the jury, which took several hours over two days to reach a verdict.

During the trial, the prosecution, led by David Sapiecha, clarified that no physical force or threats were used by Alam. Instead, his actions were characterized by relentless persuasion and determination, which ultimately proved unsuccessful. The court heard that Alam's behavior was inappropriate and concerning, especially given the age of the girl and the context of his approach.

At the sentencing hearing, Judge Philip Wassall emphasized the gravity of Alam's actions, stating that failing to impose a custodial sentence would be a disservice to the public. He expressed his disgust at the fact that a man in his mid-thirties would target a child, fully aware of her age, and make repeated attempts to engage her in sexual activity. The judge highlighted the importance of protecting minors and maintaining public trust in the justice system.

Mitigating circumstances presented by Alam's defense attorney, Lee Bremridge, included the fact that Alam had been living in the UK for seven years and had built up his business, the Spice Cellar, through his own efforts. Bremridge also noted that the incident occurred at a time when Alam's wife was not in the country, implying that the situation might have been different under other circumstances. He argued that a custodial sentence would have severe consequences for Alam, including the loss of his business, his home, and the inability to repay a £16,000 bank loan.

However, Judge Wassall was unconvinced by these arguments, criticizing Alam for showing no remorse or acceptance of guilt. The judge stated, “There is overwhelming evidence that you had gone up to a young girl in the street who was 14 and, knowing how old she was, made persistent and determined attempts to convince her to go away and have sex with you.” As a result, Alam was sentenced to 12 months in prison and was ordered to register as a sex offender, underscoring the seriousness of his misconduct and the need for public protection.