Two teenagers from Afghanistan have been sentenced for the rape of a 15-year-old girl in a park in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, in May.
Jan Jahanzeb and Israr Niazal, both 17, were sentenced to ten years and eight months and nine years and ten months in prison respectively at Warwick Crown Court. The court heard that both individuals had arrived in the UK as unaccompanied minors.
Judge Sylvia de Bertodano ruled it was in the public interest to name the defendants, despite defence submissions that disclosure could risk public disorder.
During the trial, defence counsel cited cultural differences and past experiences in Afghanistan as factors. Joshua Radcliffe, representing Niazal, told the court his client was “not used to a society where women are free and deemed equal to men” and faced “massive cultural barriers.”
Judge de Bertodano acknowledged cultural differences but stated the defendants should have understood the concept of consent.
Prosecutor Shawn Williams described the attack, stating the victim was led to a secluded area of Newbold Comyn park and assaulted. The court was shown video evidence in which the victim is heard pleading for help.
In a victim statement, the girl described the profound personal impact of the crime, stating it changed her from a “happy, care-free teenager” and affected her education and sense of safety. She also expressed distress over the impact on her family.
The case has prompted broader discussion regarding immigration and legal procedures.
