Haider Ali, residing on Ayresome Street in Middlesbrough, commenced his nocturnal activities in Stockton on the evening of Saturday, 7 September 2024.
The 31-year-old sexually assaulted the first woman twice beside an abandoned structure near Yarm Road.
A jury was informed that he praised her by stating she was ‘beautiful,’ expressed a desire to ‘cuddle’ and ‘kiss’ her, before forcibly pushing her to the ground and perpetrating the assault, which lasted approximately one hour.
In the footage presented to the court, Haider Ali is observed fleeing from her while adjacent individuals can be heard disputing.
Shortly thereafter, in the early hours of Sunday, September 8, Ali accosted another woman traversing Spring Street.
Subsequent to their conversation, he commenced to seize and kiss her. He subsequently assaulted her sexually, disregarding her numerous refusals and her declaration throughout the assault that she would contact law enforcement.
Upon halting, Haider Ali was informed by the woman that she would contact emergency services by dialling 999, to which he implored her not to do so. He subsequently fled towards Westbourne Street, pursued by a woman acquainted with the victim; nevertheless, he successfully evaded capture.
An investigation commenced immediately upon the report to the police, with detectives swiftly acquiring and compiling CCTV evidence to identify the assailant.
This led to a photo of Ali being released to the public for information that led to him being located at a property in Middlesbrough on Tuesday 10 September. Haider Ali had shaved his beard and upon his arrest he said it was a ‘false allegation’ and ‘consensual’. Following questioning, Ali was charged with three counts of rape and remanded in custody.
The victims spoke to specialist officers to recall what happened and have been provided with support.
Haider Ali was found guilty of three counts of rape following a trial that began at Teesside Crown Court on Tuesday 21 January 2025. He is due to be sentenced on Monday 17th March.
Detective Inspector Matt Hollingsworth, of Cleveland Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said: “Firstly I would like to commend both women for their bravery in coming forward. They not only reported what happened, which led to Ali being wanted by police, but they provided detailed accounts that would have been distressing and traumatic to speak about.
“Their courage and determination never wavered despite Ali denying what happened and knowing there would be a court case.
“Haider Ali is a sexual predator who was captured on CCTV prowling the streets of Stockton. The only emotion he has shown is towards himself with no regards for the two women he attacked.
“It will have been difficult for the victims to re-live their ordeal however they should be proud of their courage which has helped protect other vulnerable women from being targeted.”
If you, or someone you know, has been a victim of rape or serious sexual assault please report it to Cleveland Police either by calling 101 or visiting our website. Always dial 999 in an emergency.
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.