Preston man jailed for raping a woman on a night out
Police say the victim was vulnerable and too drunk to consent
Last updated 28th Jul 2017
A man from Preston has been sentenced to eight years behind bars, for raping a woman he met outside a nightclub.
Mohammed Mukhtar Mahmoud, 29, was found guilty of two offences of rape following a week-long trial.
In April last year, while on a night out with friends in Preston City Centre, the victim got separated from her friends, and was trying to find her way home.
She left a nightclub at around 4am, where Mahmoud spotted her and took advantage of the fact she was drunk and vulnerable.
He ushered her into a taxi and took her to his home, where he raped her.
"The victim was clearly under the influence of alcohol to the point where she was incapable I any way, shape or form, able to consent to any sexual activity"
Detective Inspector Martin Pearson who lead the investigation said, “Mahmoud acted in a predatory fashion. The victim was clearly under the influence of alcohol to the point where she was incapable I any way, shape or form, able to consent to any sexual activity.
“I am pleased that the judge has seen fit to issue him with a significant sentence, in my opinion, he is a very worrying and dangerous individual who I am glad to say is now off the streets of Preston.
“Fortunately, the victim had the confidence to come forward and report what had happened to her and I genuinely hope that this sentence has provided some closure for her. I hope it also reassures anyone else that we will seriously investigate any reports made to us and do all we can to bring offenders to justice and get them off our streets.”
No matter what the circumstances, sexual activity against your will is a crime. Police and charities are here to help and support you. To report a rape or sexual offence ring 101 or use 999 if you feel you are in immediate danger.
If you feel unable to report it to the police straight away, tell someone you trust. You can speak to your GP or you can also self-refer to the SAFE Centre, a specialist unit at Preston Royal Hospital. They can offer counselling and support and can be contacted on 01772 523344