Sentencing for Muhammad Sheikhi, a 23-year-old asylum seeker convicted of sexually assaulting two women in Falkirk, has been delayed until August 10. Sheikhi was due to be sentenced on Monday at Stirling Sheriff Court but the hearing was postponed because a criminal justice social work report was not ready.
Details of the Attacks
Sheikhi carried out both assaults in the early hours of Sunday, November 30, near the Hotel Cladhan where he was staying. His first victim was attacked at a railway bridge on Kerse Lane, where he hugged her, repeatedly kissed her face and mouth, and put his hands under her skirt. He then assaulted a second woman in Kerse Lane and the nearby Bellsmeadow skate park, pinning her against a tree before putting his hands under her clothing. Both victims were in their early 20s and had been walking home alone after nights out in the town centre.
Conviction and Court Proceedings
Sheikhi, who entered the UK by boat, denied the charges and told police he was just “roaming around” as he had no one to socialise with at the hotel. However, after a four-day trial in May at Stirling Sheriff Court, a jury found him guilty of both charges following three hours of deliberation. Prosecutor Jamie Hilland described Sheikhi’s actions as “predatory” towards the two women.
Sentencing Adjourned
When Sheikhi appeared for sentencing on Monday, Sheriff O’Mahony was informed that the required social work report was unavailable. Sheikhi’s lawyer, Paul Keenan, stated he had no objection to a six-week deferral. Sheriff O’Mahony adjourned the case to August 10, with Sheikhi remaining in custody until then.
