Ramzi Barkat, 54, was sentenced to seven years and three months in prison at Southwark Crown Court for attempting to rape a woman near Buckingham Palace. His Honour Judge Justin Cole criticized police for releasing Barkat for a year after he was caught red-handed, calling it a 'catalogue of incompetencies'.
Attack Near Buckingham Palace
In the early hours of September 7, 2024, Barkat followed a lone woman out of St James's Park in central London. After she rejected his flirtatious advances, he tackled her to the ground, grabbed her by the wrists, and straddled her. The attempted rape was stopped when three young soldiers heard her screams and intervened.
Police Failures
Judge Cole stated that Barkat was 'simply let go' after the victim was interviewed, despite being caught red-handed. 'The public would be appalled to hear of such laxity,' he said. Barkat remained free for a year, posing a continuing danger to the public.
Verdict and Sentencing
Barkat, from Mildmay Road, north London, was found guilty of attempted rape and assaulting one of the soldiers. He denied both counts, claiming he only tried to rob the woman of her phone. Along with his prison sentence, he received a 10-year sexual harm prevention order and a 10-year restraining order.
Bravery Recognized
The judge announced he would nominate the three young soldiers for High Sheriff Bravery Awards for their courageous intervention.
