A 28-year-old man from Bolton has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a girl in Northwich. Furqan Khalil assaulted the girl at his mobile phone and e-cigarette shop, asking her what “favours” she would do for him in return for a vape.
Conviction after four-day trial
Khalil, of Rishton Lane, Bolton, was found guilty of engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a child following a four-day trial at Chester Crown Court which concluded on Thursday (August 27).
The court heard that in February 2024, the victim entered Khalil’s mobile phone and e-cigarette shop in Northwich to buy a phone charger. While in the shop, she asked whether she could purchase a vape. As Khalil showed her a selection, he touched her inappropriately.
Assault outside the shop
After she chose a vape, Khalil told her to wait outside, claiming he could not give it to her inside because of the CCTV cameras. Once outside, Khalil again touched the victim inappropriately. When she asked for the vape, he instead asked what “favours” she would do for him in return.
The victim then punched Khalil, causing him to run off.
Police response and sentencing
Detective Sergeant Helen Harrison said: “I welcome today’s outcome and hope this conviction will provide reassurance to the victim, and local residents, and also acts as a warning to other people who feel that it is acceptable to act in this manner.
“We treat all reports of sexual offences extremely seriously, and any allegation will be thoroughly investigated, with the wishes and needs of the victim as our main priority.
“Victims should never feel ashamed to talk about what they have been subjected to. They will receive the help and support they need from our specialist officers, as well as from other support agencies we work alongside, and all victims of sexual offences have the right to anonymity.”
Furqan Khalil has been bailed and will appear in the same court on Friday (October 9) to be sentenced.
