Man jailed for rape in Barking after teenage victim and friend bravely give evidence

A man convicted of rape and sexual assault has been jailed for 15 years after the teenage victim and her friend bravely gave evidence to support the case.

Ashraf Khan 39, (13.09.84) of Emily Duncan Place, Forest Gate E7, was sentenced on Wednesday, 7 February at Snaresbrook Crown Court. He was previously convicted of two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault following a trial at the same court in November 2023.

Detective Sergeant Charlie Yexley, from the local policing team in Barking, said: “I praise both the victim and her friend for coming forward to police and supporting our investigation, as well as their families for supporting the prosecution. It is because of their courage that Khan is behind bars and unable to cause harm to any further victims."

On 11 August 2021, the 13-year-old victim and her 14-year-old friend, went to a shop on Abbey Road, Barking. Khan approached the girls and began talking to them.

Khan went on to rape one of the girls before fleeing the scene.

On 30 September 2021, the victim reported the incident to police and an investigation was launched by detectives specialising in sexual offences.

As Khan had provided the victims with his Snapchat handle prior to the offence officers were quickly able to trace his identity. They found that Khan’s house was just a sixty second walk from the scene. He was arrested and admitted that he had been with the girls but denied any of the offending.

The victim and her friend were supported by specialist officers throughout the investigation and court proceedings.

If you have been a victim of sexual assault then please contact the police as soon as possible so we can give you the support that you need and investigate.