NADEEM ARIF ACCRINGTON PIZZA DELIVERY SCANDAL: UNDERAGE SEX ACT LEADS TO JAIL TIME

In November 2002, Nadeem Arif, a 24-year-old man from Lister Street in Accrington, was sentenced to four months in prison after being convicted of engaging in a sexual act with a 14-year-old girl. The case drew significant attention due to the circumstances surrounding the incident and the defendant's prior legal history.

Initially, Arif had admitted to indecent assault on the young girl and was given a three-year community rehabilitation order. This order required him only to attend meetings with his probation officer when instructed. However, Arif failed to comply with this court-mandated condition, repeatedly breaching the order, which ultimately led to his imprisonment.

Judge Raymond Bennett addressed the defendant directly, emphasizing the simplicity of the court's instructions and the importance of adhering to them. He stated, “It was not a very difficult thing to do. You have to learn you have to comply with court orders otherwise something nasty happens to you — and that is what is going to happen now.”

According to the prosecution, June Morris representing the probation service, the incident took place in Accrington when the victim and her friend, both teenagers, were drinking alcohol. The girls encountered Arif and another man, who were delivering takeaway pizzas. The group then drove to a secluded lane, where the 14-year-old girl remained in the front seat of the car with Arif.

Miss Morris explained that Arif exited the vehicle, approached the girl from the front, and forcibly pulled her out by the arm. He then instructed her to perform a sex act on him. The girl, feeling intimidated by Arif’s physical presence and build, believed she had no choice but to comply. It was noted that Arif had no prior convictions related to sexual offenses.

During the court proceedings, Tim Ashmole, representing the defendant, argued that what transpired was “seemingly consensual oral sex,” despite the girl being underage. He highlighted that Arif’s pre-sentence report was bleak, revealing personal struggles, including a strained marriage and possible depression. The report also indicated that Arif’s relationship with his family had been affected by the incident.

Mr. Ashmole pointed out that if Arif were to be imprisoned, it would be his first custodial sentence. The defense suggested that a substantial fine could be considered, but if prison was deemed necessary, the sentence should be as short as possible given the circumstances. The court ultimately decided on a four-month jail term, emphasizing the importance of compliance with court orders and the seriousness of the offense.