A 40-year-old man has been convicted of rape following the conclusion of a trial at Northampton Crown Court last week.
In the early hours of May 28, 2024, Mohammed Ali Sheikh, previously of St Michael’s Road, Northampton, lured a woman to a property in Clare Street, Northampton, where he raped her twice. The woman managed to escape from the address and later reported the incident to Serenity, the Sexual Assault Referral Centre, and to Northamptonshire Police.
Fast-Paced Investigation Leads to Conviction
The Force’s SOLAR Team launched an investigation that involved multiple lines of inquiry to locate the property and identify the perpetrator. Their efforts led them to Sheikh, who was arrested and subsequently charged with two counts of rape and one count of attempted rape.
Sheikh’s trial began on December 2 and lasted 10 days. On December 19, the jury found him guilty of all three charges after just over five hours of deliberation.
Survivor Praised for Bravery
Detective Constable Elisha Lofthouse, the lead investigator, commended the survivor’s courage in coming forward and supporting the investigation.
“The woman in this case has shown exceptional courage throughout the court process, and I want to thank her for her bravery, her support, and the trust she put in us to investigate what happened to her,” said DC Lofthouse.
“Though no amount of time behind bars will be enough to make up for what he did, I hope the survivor feels some sense of closure and justice as a result of this conviction.”
Sheikh will be sentenced on February 14, 2025.
Support for Survivors
Northamptonshire Police emphasized their commitment to tackling violence against women and girls, with the SOLAR Team dedicated to protecting survivors of sexual offences and securing justice.
The survivor in this case has been supported throughout the legal process and has the legal right to lifelong anonymity.
Help and Support Available
If you have been a victim of sexual abuse, whether recent or non-recent, Northamptonshire Police encourages you to come forward by calling 101 or via their online reporting tool at www.northants.police.uk.
Support is also available through Serenity, a free and confidential 24/7 service, by visiting www.nhft.nhs.uk/serenity or calling 01604 601713. Additionally, Voice, a local support service, can be reached at www.voicenorthants.org or by calling 0300 303 1965.
“We will believe you,” emphasized Northamptonshire Police.
