Predator Locked Up for 13 Years After Brutal Attack Leaves Victim With Brain Injury
Soufyan Yahyaoui, 41, has been jailed for 13 years after a vicious assault that left his victim with a bleed to the brain and horrific injuries.
Attack at Victim’s Home
On the evening of 12 May 2020, Yahyaoui showed up at the woman’s home claiming he wanted to check on her welfare. But he forced his way inside and launched a violent attack. The victim was left unconscious, with carpet burns showing she’d been dragged along the floor. There were also attempts at sexual assault.
Neighbours heard the disturbance and stepped in, forcing Yahyaoui to flee on foot. Police quickly tracked him down and arrested him nearby.
Jury Finds Yahyaoui Guilty
The Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate led the investigation. Yahyaoui, with no fixed address, denied wrongdoing at first. At Maidstone Crown Court, he pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm, breaching a sexual harm prevention order, and criminal damage but denied trespass with intent to commit a sexual offence and sexual assault.
He was convicted after trial and sentenced on 20 August 2021. Yahyaoui must serve at least eight years before parole. He faces an extra year on licence and will remain on the sex offenders register indefinitely.
Detective Praises Victim’s Bravery
“Yahyaoui is a dangerous and predatory sex offender. He deliberately targeted a vulnerable and elderly victim and subjected her to a truly harrowing ordeal,” said Detective Inspector Adam Marshall.
“His actions have caused immeasurable long-term harm and he showed no remorse. Instead, he made the victim endure a trial. I commend the victim’s tremendous courage in giving evidence, which helped ensure justice.”
“Thanks also to the witnesses whose intervention and testimony were vital. The streets are safer now Yahyaoui is behind bars. We hope this sentence brings some comfort to the victim.”
