MOHAMMED HANIF KHAN SENTENCED IN SHEFFIELD FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES IN BRADFORD

A well-regarded Muslim cleric, who was employed as a teacher at a mosque in Bradford, has been handed a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of multiple sexual offenses committed against a young boy over twenty-five years ago. Mohammed Hanif Khan, aged 57 and residing on Blagden Street in Sheffield, appeared before Bradford Crown Court via video link from HMP Leeds for his sentencing hearing. The victim, who was directly affected by Khan’s actions, was present in the courtroom to witness the proceedings, providing a personal account of the trauma inflicted.

Judge His Honour Christopher Smith sentenced Khan to a total of 13 years in prison, with an additional three years on license following his release. The judge described Khan as someone who outwardly appeared respectful and trustworthy but, in reality, harbored a perverted sexual interest in underage boys. In his remarks, the judge emphasized that Khan was a respected member of the teaching staff at the mosque, which made his abuse of children particularly egregious. The court heard that Khan exploited his position of trust to carry out his offenses, often silencing his victims through threats of disbelief or retaliation if they dared to report him.

Furthermore, the court noted that other staff members had observed Khan in suspicious circumstances on multiple occasions but failed to take action or report their concerns. These missed opportunities could have potentially prevented further harm. It was also revealed that Khan had a prior conviction for similar misconduct in Stoke-on-Trent in 2009, which resulted in a 16-year sentence handed down in 2011. Importantly, his offending in Bradford predates the Stoke-on-Trent crimes, and Khan chose not to disclose these earlier offenses when previously charged.

The judge expressed significant concern about Khan’s ongoing risk to the public, citing his limited acknowledgment of responsibility and apparent lack of genuine remorse. Despite being in his late 50s, Khan could be eligible for parole or release in his mid-60s; however, the court was clear that the conditions of his license would likely be insufficient to safeguard the community during that period. The sentencing reflected the court’s recognition of the persistent danger Khan poses, especially given his minimal insight into the gravity of his actions and his refusal to accept full responsibility for his crimes.