REBAR MOHAMMED FROM NEWPORT JAILED FOR GROOMING AND SEXUAL MESSAGES TO UNDERAGE GIRL
In a serious case that highlights the dangers of online grooming, Rebar Mohammed, a 27-year-old man from Newport, was sentenced to prison after engaging in inappropriate and illegal communications with a decoy profile posing as a 15-year-old girl.The incident took place in February 2018, when Mohammed appeared before Newport Crown Court to face charges related to grooming and sexual communication with a minor.
Mohammed, who has no fixed address, had previously admitted guilt to attempting to meet a girl under the age of 16 with the intent of sexual activity, as well as engaging in sexual communication with a child.
His plea was entered through a Kurdish Sorani interpreter, emphasizing his limited command of English and possible social isolation since fleeing Iraq in 2015.
The case was prosecuted by Jason Howells, who explained that the incident was orchestrated by a volunteer group called PH Balance, a self-described child protection organization.
On November 17, the group created a fake profile under the name ‘Felicity,’ claiming to be a 15-year-old girl.
From that date, the decoy profile engaged in conversations with Mohammed, initially on an internet platform and later via WhatsApp.
According to Mr.
Howells, the conversations between Mohammed and the decoy, which lasted from November 20 through December 19, totaled approximately 13 hours.
Throughout these exchanges, the decoy consistently identified herself as a 15-year-old girl.
During the chats, Mohammed asked her personal questions, including whether she was a virgin, and shockingly, he sent a photograph of his genitals to the decoy.
The defendant later arranged to meet ‘Felicity’ at a bridge near Newport Leisure Centre on December 19.
He was met at the location by members of PH Balance, who then alerted the police.
Mohammed was subsequently arrested at the scene.
During police interviews, he admitted to sending the messages but claimed he believed the girl was 23 years old, not 15.
In his defense, Mohammed’s lawyer, Ben Waters, described his client as a man who has led a very lonely and isolated life since fleeing Iraq.
He highlighted Mohammed’s limited English skills and social withdrawal, suggesting these factors contributed to his behavior.
The lawyer also acknowledged that Mohammed had used dating websites and had initiated conversations with the decoy.
During the hearing, Mohammed provided evidence in response to questions about one particular message he sent, which asked, “can I sleep with you xx?” When asked about the meaning of this message, Mohammed stated that he did not intend to imply a physical relationship.
However, the court did not accept this explanation.
Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke made it clear that, despite the friendly tone of the conversations, there was clear sexual content.
She pointed out that Mohammed had requested explicit photos and made references to sexual activity, including a request for penetrative intercourse.
Ultimately, the judge sentenced Mohammed to 18 months in prison.
Additionally, she imposed a sexual harm prevention order that will remain in effect for ten years, aiming to protect the public from any future offending behavior by the defendant.
This case underscores the ongoing risks associated with online grooming and the importance of vigilance in protecting minors from exploitation.
