A South East London man has been sentenced to two years and three months in prison after breaching a Slavery and Trafficking Risk Order (STRO) designed to protect young girls from exploitation.
Offender and Background
Rashid Harif, 24, of Friary Road, Peckham, has a history of drug-related convictions and has previously been found in the company of young girls under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
Due to concerns about child sexual exploitation, Harif was made the subject of a Slavery and Trafficking Risk Order (STRO) in July 2021.
Incident and Arrest
On September 5, 2024, police officers in Peterborough stopped a car that pulled out in front of them and smelled strongly of cannabis.
Harif was one of four occupants in the vehicle, all of whom were searched and arrested after police uncovered fifteen “deal bags” of cannabis inside.
Further breaches of his STRO were identified when:
- He was found in possession of a mobile phone not registered with police, violating the conditions of his order.
- He provided officers with an address that was not his registered home address, constituting another breach.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Harif appeared at Peterborough Crown Court on Monday, 24 February, where he pleaded guilty to:
- Possession of cannabis
- Two counts of breaching a STRO
He was sentenced to two years and three months in prison.
Police Statement
Detective Constable Kyle Miskin, who investigated the case, said:
“Harif has a history of drug-related convictions, as well as being in the company of teenage girls who have been found under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
“Having the Slavery and Trafficking Risk Order in place gives us additional powers to ensure safeguarding is in place. However, Harif has proved he is not able to stick to the conditions of his order, with six convictions for breaching it in 2022.
“The court agreed Harif poses a significant risk to vulnerable people, in particular young females, which is reflected in the sentence.”
Ongoing Safeguarding Efforts
Authorities continue to monitor individuals under risk orders and are encouraging the public to report any suspicious activity related to exploitation and trafficking.
If you have concerns about someone at risk, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppers-UK.org.
