MOHSIN RAFIQUE SENTENCED IN LEEDS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL

In a case that has shocked the community of Leeds, Mohsin Rafique, a young man aged 19, was sentenced to six years in prison for the serious sexual abuse of a young girl. The disturbing details of the case were revealed during a hearing at Bradford Crown Court, where it was disclosed that the victim endured a harrowing ordeal lasting two years, beginning when she was only ten years old.

According to the court, the abuse inflicted upon the girl was both physically and psychologically damaging. The case came to light after her mother discovered text messages on her daughter’s phone, in which the girl confided in a friend that she had been raped. This discovery prompted her parents to confront Rafique directly. The prosecutor, Rupert Doswell, explained that the parents, furious and distressed, demanded that Rafique leave the country immediately or face police intervention. The situation escalated when Rafique, originally from Pakistan and residing on Ingleton Street in Leeds, returned to his homeland after the allegations surfaced.

However, the police became involved again in April of the current year when the parents found out that Rafique had returned to Britain. This led to further investigations and his subsequent arrest. Rafique pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual abuse, which involved acts committed when he was between 15 and 17 years old. The victim recounted to police that Rafique’s abuse was frequent, occurring at least once a week, during which he would grope her and undress her against her will.

Initially, Rafique faced charges of rape, but after consultations with the victim and her parents, the prosecution decided to drop this charge. The decision was made to avoid further trauma to the young girl, who had already endured significant suffering. During the court proceedings, Rafique’s barrister, Mohammed Nawaz, expressed remorse on behalf of his client, stating that Rafique had carried the burden of the more serious allegations for months. Nawaz emphasized that Rafique was “thoroughly ashamed of his actions and regrets his behaviour.”

Judge John Potter addressed the court, highlighting the severe impact of Rafique’s actions on the victim. He noted that the girl had suffered both physically and psychologically, and that her distress was evident. The judge acknowledged her bravery in speaking out, describing her as “an extremely brave young woman who had the courage to speak to the police about your depraved activities.”

Judge Potter also remarked on Rafique’s personal struggles, but emphasized that many individuals face difficulties without resorting to such heinous acts. The judge’s condemnation was clear, stating that Rafique’s conduct was a profound moral failing. As part of his sentence, Rafique was ordered to register as a sex offender indefinitely and was subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order with no fixed end date, ensuring ongoing supervision and restrictions to protect the community from further harm.