Man jailed over 'truly awful' sexual offences

Grace Parnell
BBC News, Yorkshire
West Yorkshire Police Adil Zafar, 44, of HalilfaxWest Yorkshire Police
Zafar Ali, 44, committed the offences against a woman in Halifax last year

A man who committed multiple sexual offences, including rape, against his female victim has been jailed.

Adil Zafar, 44, from Halifax, was found guilty by a jury at Bradford Crown Court of three rape offences, strangulation, sexual assault by penetration, and coercive and controlling behaviour. He had earlier admitted an offence of criminal damage.

At the same court on Friday, he was sentenced to 15 years in jail and he was told he would be supervised on licence for a further three years.

After Zafar's sentencing, Det Con Sally Muskett, from West Yorkshire Police, said he was "a danger to women", and she thanked his victim for her "courage" in coming forward.

'Truly awful offences'

Zafar committed the offences against a woman in Halifax last year and was reported to police in June, according to police.

Calderdale District Safeguarding Unit launched an investigation and Zafar was arrested and charged shortly afterwards.

Det Con Muskett said: "We welcome the sentencing of Zafar, who was described in his sentencing by Recorder Dallas as a danger to the public, who had shown no remorse for his offending.

"He is indeed a danger to women, and the truly awful sexual and emotional offences he committed against his victim were reflected in the extended jail sentence he was given by the court."

Det Con Muskett added: "I want to thank the victim in this case for having the courage to come forwards and report the dreadful abuse she suffered.

"Her determination to see this man brought to justice has resulted in a dangerous man being jailed and prevented from hurting other women."

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