A ruthless salon owner who brazenly taunted one of his victims with the words "are you sure you don't want more?" has been handed a 26-year prison sentence for a horrifying series of sex attacks across the capital.
Asghar Gheshalghian, 40, was described by prosecutors as a "calculated and predatory" offender who targeted vulnerable women in a campaign of violence that spanned several years. The Iranian national operated hair and beauty salons while secretly carrying out his double life as a serial sex attacker.
The Chilling Taunt
In one particularly disturbing incident, Gheshalghian approached a victim he had previously attacked and mockingly asked if she was "sure you don't want more?" - a sickening reference to his earlier assault. This audacious confrontation demonstrated the defendant's complete lack of remorse and his belief that he could operate with impunity.
A Pattern of Predatory Behaviour
Southwark Crown Court heard how Gheshalghian employed sophisticated grooming techniques to gain his victims' trust before subjecting them to violent sexual assaults. His position as a business owner provided him with both credibility and opportunity to identify potential targets.
Detective Inspector James Mason, who led the investigation, stated: "Gheshalghian is one of the most dangerous offenders I have encountered in my career. He displayed a chilling level of calculation in his attacks and showed no regard for the trauma he inflicted upon his victims."
Justice Served After Lengthy Investigation
The Metropolitan Police's Complex Investigation Team spent months building the case against Gheshalghian, piecing together forensic evidence and victim statements that ultimately revealed a pattern of predatory behaviour across multiple London boroughs.
Judge Sarah Johnston, delivering the sentence, told Gheshalghian: "You have been found guilty of a campaign of sexual violence that has destroyed lives. Your actions were calculated, brutal, and demonstrated a complete absence of empathy for your victims."
The 26-year sentence includes both custodial time and an extended licence period, reflecting the court's assessment of Gheshalghian as a continuing danger to women.
