SABBIR IBRAHIM FROM BLACKBURN SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON CHILD
In December 2019, a man who was once regarded as a respected member of the Blackburn community has been sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting an eight-year-old girl.The conviction was delivered at Preston Crown Court, where it was revealed that Ibrahim's actions had profoundly damaged the young victim's self-esteem and emotional well-being.
During the court proceedings, it was disclosed that the young girl had reported the assault, specifically the penetration, to her mother almost immediately after the incident occurred.
This prompt report led to police involvement and a subsequent investigation.
The court was also informed that the girl had been so distressed by the prospect of reliving her traumatic experience during the trial that she became physically ill.
Sabbir Ibrahim, aged 66, denied the charges of assault by penetration and sexual assault.
However, after a jury trial, he was convicted of these offences.
Prosecutor John Wyn Williams emphasized the severity of the case, highlighting the impact on the young girl.
It was further revealed that Ibrahim was not a first-time offender.
He had a previous conviction for sexual assault dating back to 2017, involving a 17-year-old girl.
During sentencing, Judge David Potter addressed Ibrahim directly, stating, "This was not the first time that you had shown an unlawful sexual interest in someone." The judge recounted how Ibrahim had approached his earlier victim from behind, placing his hands on her shoulders, then cupping her breasts before moving down to her crotch area.
The teenage girl managed to escape and later reported the incident to the police.
Judge Potter expressed concern that Ibrahim’s past and present actions indicated a pattern of sexual interest in young females.
He emphasized the lasting emotional damage such abuse can inflict, noting that the trauma experienced by children can persist into adulthood.
Regarding the recent conviction, the judge ordered Ibrahim to serve a six-year prison sentence, deducting 95 days he had already spent on a curfew during the proceedings.
Additionally, Ibrahim, who resides on Warrington Street in Little Harwood, is required to register as a sex offender for life.
He will also be subject to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order, aimed at protecting the community from further harm.
