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An Iranian refugee, Ahmadreza Khalafi, 29, has been jailed for sexually assaulting 19-year-old Abbie Johnson, who waived her anonymity, in Bishop Stortford, UK, on May 3 last year.
During a night out playing hide and seek near the Black Lion pub, Khalafi attacked Abbie for over 10 minutes. Security staff witnessed the incident, alerting police and leading to his swift arrest.
In her court statement, Abbie described the profound impact:
"I experienced ongoing depression and at times feels suicidal. The effects have been severe, long-lasting and continue to affect me every single day. I no longer recognise myself, feeling disconnected from the person I used to be. I feel different, empty and unable to live my life the way I did before. I suffer from constant flashbacks, and intrusive memories flood my mind. I am scared of the dark. I feel frightened in my own home and feel unsafe doing day-to-day activities."
Initially charged with rape, five counts of sexual assault, and one count of sexual assault by penetration, the rape charge was withdrawn, and the penetration charge lies on file. At St Albans Crown Court on December 2, Khalafi pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual touching. On February 5, he was sentenced to four-and-a-half years' imprisonment, plus three years' extended licence and a 10-year restraining order.
Judge Mann remarked:
"You acted on that day as a predator. You saw someone who was vulnerable and took advantage of her. I’m not entirely persuaded you don't know the difference between right and wrong; it doesn't matter your background, anyone would know not to go up to a helpless woman and sexually assault them. That’s not right anywhere."
Khalafi received refugee status in summer 2024, fearing persecution in Iran, and was staying in Stortford with church assistance at the time.
Det Sgt Adam Haines praised Abbie's courage:
“First and foremost, I would like to commend the victim for the courage she has shown throughout. Whilst I am grateful that she was spared the ordeal of having to go through a trial, preparing for it understandably left her feeling extremely stressed and scared. She continues to be deeply affected by Khalafi’s actions to this day. I’d also like to thank the investigation team for their hard work in bringing the case to court and securing a conviction. A sexual predator is now behind bars as a result.”
A Hertfordshire Constabulary spokeswoman added:
“Being a victim of a sexual offence is never your fault. If you’ve been a victim, no matter how long ago the offence occurred, please report it. We have specialist officers on hand to provide advice and support throughout an investigation.”