HASSNAIN SHAHZAD ILFORD SPECIAL CONSTABLE SEXUALLY ASSAULTS 14-YEAR-OLD IN BISHOPSGATE TESCO

A disturbing incident involving a Metropolitan Police special constable has come to light, revealing a series of inappropriate and criminal actions against a young girl in the heart of London. Hassnain Shahzad, aged 27 and residing on Ilford Lane in Ilford, was involved in a troubling encounter with a 14-year-old schoolgirl at a Tesco store located in Bishopsgate. The events unfolded late in the evening, specifically at 10:48 pm on August 25, 2023, and have since sparked widespread concern and outrage.

According to reports, Shahzad was standing in line behind the young girl and her mother when he deliberately passed close to her and made physical contact by touching her bottom. The crowded environment initially obscured the girl’s awareness of his actions, but she later noted that he was carrying pineapple chunks, which she remembered as a detail that stood out to her during the incident. This seemingly minor detail later played a crucial role in identifying the suspect.

As the girl and her mother exited the store, Shahzad was caught on CCTV footage approaching the young girl again on the pavement outside. The footage clearly depicted him making a beeline for her, despite the fact that she was trying to avoid him. He once more engaged in inappropriate contact, touching her inappropriately for a second time. The girl, showing remarkable bravery, managed to alert her mother about what had transpired both inside Tesco and on the street.

The girl’s mother described her daughter as being distraught and overwhelmed by the experience. She recounted that her daughter expressed a desire to return home rather than continue their plans, and noted that two young women approached them to inquire about what had happened. The mother praised her daughter for her courage in speaking out and enduring the subsequent legal process, emphasizing her resilience despite the trauma.

She further described the incident as heartbreaking, stating, “That day would mark the tragic end of her innocence, snatching away her right to view the world through the innocent eyes of a child.” The mother also highlighted her daughter’s compassion and strength, despite the distress she endured.

Following the incident, authorities from the City of London Police identified Shahzad through CCTV footage and bank transaction records, which confirmed his presence at the scene. He was subsequently arrested at his home about a month later. During the search, police seized various items, including clothing that matched what he was wearing in the CCTV footage. Despite the mounting evidence, Shahzad initially denied the charges but was ultimately found guilty of two counts of sexual assault.

On Thursday, February 28, Shahzad appeared at Inner London Crown Court, where he was handed a sentence of six months in prison, suspended for 18 months. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 120 hours of unpaid community service and will be registered as a sex offender for the next seven years. The case has raised serious questions about the conduct of a police officer entrusted with public safety, and the community continues to grapple with the implications of this disturbing breach of trust.