Reading man convicted of rape in Oxford
It happened near to the Westgate Shopping Centre back in February
A Reading man has been convicted of rape in Oxford.
Amin Abedi Mofrad, aged 35, of Mill Lane, Reading was today (7/10) found guilty by unanimous jury verdict following a trial at Oxford Crown Court of one count of rape and one count of sexual assault by penetration.
The incident took place near to the Westgate Shopping Centre in Oxford on 14 February 2024.
The incident was reported to police on 7 April 2025. Due to the time that had passed, CCTV was unavailable. Fortunately, through Project Vigilant - a Thames Valley Police initiative to target predatory behaviour in Oxford city centre - officers arrested Mofrad. Evidence linking him to the previously reported offences were found on his mobile phone.
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Bethany Liversidge, of Oxford CID, said: “Today’s conviction sends a clear message that Thames Valley Police is committed to bringing anybody who harms women and girls to justice.
“I want to pay tribute to the incredible bravery shown by the teenage victim in this case. She has endured immense stress and trauma, yet found the courage to come forward and hold Mofrad to account.
“Thanks to her strength and the dedication of our officers, he has now been convicted of this appalling offence.
“Project Vigilant is a valuable initiative which helps us to stop crimes from happening, but when they sadly do, allows us to build intelligence around predatory activity.
“We will not hesitate to take action against those who pose a threat to innocent people.”
Amin Abedi Mofrad is due to be sentenced at the same court on 13 November.