Reading man sentenced for rape despite not appearing in court
Police praise judge for going ahead with the trial
A man has been sentenced to eight and a half years’ imprisonment for rape in Reading.
Abdul Khan, aged 39, of Chatham Place, Reading, was sentenced at Reading Crown Court.
Following a three-day trial in July, a jury found Khan unanimously guilty of one count of rape.
The trial was held in Khan’s absence, after he failed to appear at court.
Officer in the case, Detective Constable Nicole Jury of Reading CID, said:
“I am delighted that Abdul Khan has finally been brought to justice for raping a teenage girl in Reading in 2010.
“The victim reported the offence to Thames Valley Police in 2019 and following an investigation by the force, Khan was charged in 2021.
“The trial was due to go ahead in December 2022, however Khan was not in the country and so the trial was rearranged for July this year when Khan failed to attend court because he was in Pakistan.
“I am grateful that the judge decided to hold the trial in Khan’s absence, and after deliberation the jury found him unanimously guilty.
“We are in the early stages of the extradition process and are currently liaising with the Crown Prosecution Service. However, if anyone has information as to Khan’s whereabouts they can contact the force via our website or 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
“I would like to thank the victim who has shown courage and resilience to continue to support the prosecution, despite the delays caused by Khan.
“This case demonstrates that Thames Valley Police is relentless in its pursuit and disruption of perpetrators of violence against women and girls.
“I would encourage anyone who is a victim of crime, or anyone who knows someone who is a victim of crime to contact the police. We will listen and support you.”