MAHMAND DAVID KHADIR SENTENCED TO 19 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN ST LEONARDS

In a harrowing case that has shocked the community of St Leonards, a man identified as Mahmand Khadir, also known as David, has been handed down a severe prison sentence of 19 years for a series of disturbing sexual offences committed against two young girls. The sentencing took place at Lewes Crown Court last Thursday, July 20, following an extensive eight-day trial during which Khadir was found guilty of multiple heinous crimes.

Mahmand Khadir, a 33-year-old resident of Carisbrooke Road in St Leonards and currently unemployed, faced a series of charges that painted a disturbing picture of abuse and exploitation. The court heard that Khadir was convicted of one count of attempted rape of a girl under the age of 13, which was alleged to have occurred on a specific occasion. In addition, he was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault on the same girl, with these offences spanning several incidents over a period of three years.

Further charges included eight counts of rape of a girl under 13, committed on multiple occasions, as well as child cruelty against the same victim, also over a two-year period. The victims, both girls, were aged between nine and 12 at the time of the offences, highlighting the grave nature of Khadir’s crimes and the vulnerability of the victims.

During the sentencing, Judge Stuart Lawson-Rogers delivered a stern and condemning statement to Khadir. He described the defendant’s actions as nothing short of a campaign of rape, emphasizing the calculated and predatory nature of the offences. The judge remarked, “You orchestrated nothing less than a campaign of rape against a child who you treated as a sex object with no regard to your base behaviour on her. You showed little or no emotion or empathy with either of the victims. You had no remorse.”

Judge Lawson-Rogers further highlighted the profound and lasting impact such abuse can have on a child, noting that the effects of such trauma can be a lifelong burden. He concluded by stating, “Abuse of this nature, particularly against a child, can be a life-long sentence. The effects will be profound and lasting on the child who no doubt was terrified of you.”

This case underscores the severity of child sexual abuse and the importance of justice for victims. Khadir’s lengthy imprisonment reflects the court’s recognition of the gravity of his crimes and the need to protect society from individuals who commit such heinous acts.