Following a rape conviction at Plymouth Crown Court, Mohammed Abdullah Plymouth Rapist received an eight and a half year term. For two charges of rape, Mohammed Abdullah, 34, with no permanent residence in Plymouth, was sentenced to eight and a half years in prison, to be served concurrently with limited allowances for time spent under curfew restrictions.
Plymouth Crown Court heard that the victim and a friend were lodging in a city hotel Friday, October 21, 2022.
After lunch, they walked back to their hotel before she left on a solo walk about midnight.
Approaching her, Mohammed Abdullah asked for sex in return for cash.
She said no and turned to go.
She remembered his pulling her into an alleyway on Plymouth’s New George Street shortly later, when he sexually assaulted her despite her efforts to stop him.
She came back to her hotel room looking upset, and her buddy called the police.
Investigators from Devon and Cornwall Police’s Project Gemstone, a specialist sexual offence investigating team housed in Plymouth, started their inquiry.
On Saturday, October 22 Abdullah, of King Street, Plymouth, was accused and remanded in Plymouth Magistrates’ Court. He fought the allegations, but after a nine-day trial at Plymouth Crown Court he was convicted guilty of two charges of rape on Friday, May 10.
Mohammed Abdullah offered a “ludicrous account” of what happened that evening, according to his Honour Judge Robert Linford, who noted he expressed no regret.
For both rapes, Mohammed Abdullah was sentenced today, Friday, June 28, to eight and a half years in jail; less time served under curfew. He was told he would have to finish two-thirds of his term before being considered for parole.
“This was a particularly disturbing crime that had a profoundly impact on the victim and heightened community tensions in the city centre and nighttime economy,” said Detective Chief Inspector Darren Roach.
“Officers reacted fast, noting the location and safeguarding forensic evidence. The offender’s name was unknown at the time, but thanks to fast inquiries and a strong manhunt he was caught hours after the incident.
“I commend the victim and her family for their strength across the investigation and court processes; she has shown incredible bravery and resilience.
“Women and girls ought to be free to stroll the streets without concern for their safety. Consequently, the Force keeps giving violence against women and girls top priority, and we will be especially careful to ensure this with our partners.
“I would also wish to commend the case officer and Crown Prosecution Service for their diligence in gathering and presenting evidence in a very complex case involving multiple witnesses called to testify at trial.
Although the effects will be long-lasting, I hope today’s punishment gives the victim some justice and comfort.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.