A Skipton man has been sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment for carrying out sick campaigns of sexual abuse against a boy and a girl.
Abdul Razaq, 57, of Greenfield Street, was today (Friday 10 August 2012) found guilty of eight charges including indecent assault, gross indecency and incitement to gross indecency at the week-long trial at Bradford Crown Court.
The offences against the children, who were both aged under 14 when their torment began, were committed in two separate periods early 1970s and early 1990s.
Razaq was arrested by North Yorkshire Police in August 2011 after the two victims bravely came forward to seek justice.
An intensive and complex investigation was conducted by Skipton CID.
Detective Constable Alison Whitwell, who led the investigation, said:
Abdul Razaq preyed upon these poor, defenceless children for his own sexual gratification.
He robbed them of their childhoods and his depraved actions have had a lasting effect into their adult lives.
It is very satisfying that Razaq has finally been made to face up to his sick crimes.
This case demonstrates that it is never too late for victims to come forward to the police. It also shows that offenders can never rest easily knowing that they will be pursued even decades later.
I truly hope that the outcome at court brings some comfort to the victims and their loved ones.
I have nothing but the utmost admiration for the immense courage they have shown throughout. I wish them the very best as they begin to rebuild their lives following this traumatic period.
