A 70-year-old man from Accrington has been sentenced to life in prison for raping and sexually assaulting two vulnerable women with learning difficulties. Shah Nawaz, who targeted his victims after befriending them, was convicted at Preston Crown Court on 10 June.
The offences, committed on separate occasions, highlight Nawaz as an extremely dangerous predator, according to the judge.
Repeat Offender History
Nawaz has a significant past record of sexual offences, having been jailed for rape in 1982 and for sexual offences against teenagers in 1988. Both previous victims were teenagers, showing a long pattern of predatory behaviour.
Victims With Learning Difficulties
One victim, a woman in her 20s, was raped and sexually assaulted inside Nawaz’s car. The other victim, in her 40s, was abused at his home and at her residence.
Both women had learning difficulties, making Nawaz’s actions particularly egregious.
Trial And Guilty Plea
Initially denying the charges, Nawaz was due to face trial at Burnley Crown Court.
However, following cross-examination of the victims’ evidence, he pleaded guilty to six counts of rape, six counts of sexual assault, and two counts of assault by penetration.
Sentence And Judges Remarks
Presiding Judge Robert Altham described Nawaz as an “extremely dangerous, predatory sexual offender.” He imposed a life sentence with a minimum term of 13 years and 362 days before Nawaz can apply for parole, reflecting the severity of the crimes and the risk he poses to the public.
