SAMAD ALI

A man has received a prison sentence after being convicted of raping a girl he met in Luton during the previous year.

Samad Ali, aged 34, was found guilty of the assault on the basis that he had provided the victim with cannabis.

Bedfordshire Police’s Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) team initiated an investigation, resulting in Ali’s arrest.

After a trial lasting four days, Ali, who resides on Bury Park Road in Luton, was convicted of rape.

He was sentenced on Thursday to a total prison term of 17 years — 11 years for the rape and six years for drug-related offenses — along with an extended license period of five years because of concerns about his dangerousness.

Detective Constable Olivia Phillips, part of the RASSO team responsible for the case, commented: “This investigation was both complex and sensitive.

I am satisfied that Ali has received a substantial custodial sentence, which will help ensure he no longer poses a threat to women or girls.” She also praised the victim’s bravery in coming forward, which helped authorities secure justice swiftly.