SUNDERLAND SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR SERIES OF RAPES
Sunderland rapist and pizza shop boss Haval Omer has had his car seized following a series of sex attacks.The 32-year-old, who also runs a pizza shop, was convicted of three counts of rape (on two victims) and four counts of sexual assault after a trial.
Omer was sentenced to 20 years in prison with an eight-year extension and a lifelong sex offender registration.
He was described by the judge as 'dangerous' and someone who 'poses a high risk to members of the public, particularly females.' The court heard he targeted women by prowling the streets and clubs at night, often attacking them either in his car or at his home.
One victim was told he would take her to hospital but instead 'abducted' and raped her.
Another woman was plied with drinks and assaulted after being 'pawned' at a club.
A third victim, whose drink had been spiked, was tricked into getting into his car and was raped at his residence.
The court also learned that Omer arrived in the UK from Iraq as an asylum seeker in 2002 and operated his business in Sunderland.
The attacks had a devastating impact on the victims, with one describing feeling 'haunted' and saying the ordeal had 'messed her life up.' Omer's vehicle was seized after prosecutors applied to deprive him of it, as it was used to facilitate his criminal acts, and the court approved this application.
The judge recognized Omer's remorse and apology but emphasized his dangerousness and high risk to the community.
