An 'extremely dangerous predator' has been handed a life sentence for raping and sexually assaulting two vulnerable women. Shah Nawaz, 70, targeted his victims, both of whom had learning difficulties, after befriending them. The women did not know each other and were preyed upon by Nawaz on different occasions, Lancashire Police said.
Details of the Attacks
One victim, a woman in her 20s, was raped and sexually assaulted by Nawaz in his car. The other victim, a woman in her 40s, was attacked at his home and where she lived.
Criminal History
A court heard how Nawaz, from Accrington, had a history of sexual offending spanning over five decades. He was jailed in 1982 for rape and then for sexual offences in 1988 – both his victims in those cases being teenagers.
Court Proceedings
On Wednesday (June 10), Judge Robert Altham at Preston Crown Court described Nawaz as an 'extremely dangerous, predatory sexual offender.' The judge handed him a life sentence, ordering him to serve a minimum of 13 years and 362 days in prison before he is eligible to apply for parole.
Nawaz, formerly of Gloucester Avenue, Accrington, initially denied the offences and was due to go on trial at Burnley Crown Court. His two victims both gave evidence and were cross-examined, after which Nawaz pleaded guilty to six charges of rape, six charges of sexual assault and two charges of assault by penetration.
Police Statement
DC David Richardson said: 'The victims have been incredibly brave in coming forward and going through the investigation and court process. Nawaz’s offending has spanned five decades, and the sentence imposed by the judge will ensure that he cannot target vulnerable people in Accrington again.'
'If you have been a victim of crime, please report it to us by contacting 101 and we will support you and investigate.'
