Amar Manzoor, 42, from Bolton, has been jailed for 22 years at Bolton Crown Court on Monday (October 19) after being convicted of a series of offences against three women, including rape, assault, stalking and controlling and coercive behaviour.
Manzoor raped and assaulted one woman; stalked another, causing her 'serious alarm and distress'; and raped and attacked a third, Greater Manchester Police said. While in police custody following his arrest on suspicion of strangulation, he attempted to contact one of the women.
GMP said Manzoor 'tried to coerce her to withdraw her statement and also attempted to force her to create false contact details in an effort to avoid detection.'
Convictions and Sentence
A jury convicted Manzoor of three counts of rape; two counts of controlling and coercive behaviour; three counts of assault; two counts of perverting the course of justice; one count of non-fatal strangulation; and one count of stalking.
The judge at Bolton Crown Court imposed the 22-year sentence on Monday.
Victims Speak Out
In a statement, one of Manzoor's victims said: "I have had to change so much in order to protect myself. So much so that I don't even recognise myself anymore." She said she is now 'merely existing'.
Another of the women said: "I know I am a much stronger person now, but I'm not completely healed. I don't believe I ever really will be."
Police Response
Detective Constable Rachel McMahon, from GMP's CID, said: "This has been a complex investigation with a number of victims involved. I'm immensely proud of all three women and I would like to commend their continued bravery throughout this investigation and the court proceedings."
She added: "Manzoor manipulated each of these women. I appreciate it hasn't been easy for any of them, but their assistance has been invaluable, and despite moments of uncertainty, their patience and courage led to a strong outcome and Manzoor behind bars. Protecting our communities is a key priority, and I hope this sentencing highlights the lengths our officers will work to ensure justice is served for those who engage such behaviour."
