A Blackburn man was today, Friday 30 August 2024, sentenced to nine years after being found guilty of sexual assault and theft of a mobile phone. The sentence includes six years in custody and a further three years on licence. The offender has been placed on the sex offenders register for life and classified as a dangerous offender of significant risk.
Tashkin Ali, 22, has been arrested following a targeted attack on a young woman after a night out in Bolton town centre on Saturday, February 29, 2020. The victim, who was 18 at the time and now 22, was enjoying her first night at a club after recently turning 18.
The court heard that during the night, the victim went to the club’s smoking area where she began feeling unwell. While her friend went to get her water, Ali approached the victim, offering to call her a taxi. Instead, he forcibly dragged her to a dark car park nearby.
A manager from a neighbouring venue noticed the suspicious behaviour and intervened. When confronted, Ali became agitated and aggressive but eventually fled the scene after insisting the victim was his girlfriend. It was later discovered that the victim’s Huawei mobile phone had been stolen during the incident.
Thanks to witness accounts, Ali was later identified and taken into custody. The stolen mobile phone was recovered from his residence.
Detective Sergeant Helen Hitchen of Bolton CID commended the victim’s bravery and praised the actions of the staff members who intervened. She stated, “Women should be able to go on a night out freely, without fear that something may happen to them.
The police emphasized their commitment to identifying and prosecuting predators, as well as their efforts in prevention and intervention. They highlighted their work in patrolling key areas, making arrests, and safeguarding vulnerable individuals in Bolton’s nightlife.
DS Hitchen also stressed the importance of reporting sexual harassment and assaults, assuring victims that they will be believed and supported by specially trained officers.
The police are urging anyone who has suffered from sexual violence to come forward, underlining that all reports will be thoroughly investigated and victims will receive support from specially trained officers.
