USMAN HUSSAIN FROM MANNINGHAM SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS FOR ABUSE OF 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN BRADFORD

In a disturbing case that has shocked the Manningham community and the wider Bradford area, Usman Hussain, aged 28, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 12 years after being found guilty of heinous crimes involving a highly vulnerable young girl. The offences stemmed from a series of predatory actions that took place over several weeks, during which Hussain engaged in sexual activities with a 12-year-old girl he met through social media platform Facebook.

Hussain, who resided at Carlisle Place in Manningham, first encountered the girl when he was 26 years old. The court heard that their relationship was initiated online, with Hussain initially claiming he was 16 years old. However, as their interactions progressed, it became clear that he was aware of her true age early on, yet continued to pursue her. During their exchanges, Hussain asked the girl to send him explicit photographs, which she did, further exposing her vulnerability.

Over the course of their relationship, Hussain provided the girl with alcohol and drugs in exchange for sexual acts. The court was informed that their encounters took place in a mattress set up inside his sister’s garage, a location that underscored the disturbing nature of his actions. The court heard that Hussain and the girl engaged in sexual activity there, with Hussain exploiting her innocence and trust.

The case came to light in late 2015 when the girl, after an argument with a parent, left her home. Almost immediately, authorities identified her as a child at risk of sexual exploitation. Police were called to the scene, and she was returned home. However, subsequent investigations revealed links between her and Hussain, leading to his arrest shortly thereafter. A relative’s information played a crucial role in connecting Hussain to the girl, prompting police action.

During the trial at Bradford Crown Court, Hussain admitted to three serious charges: rape of a child under 13, oral rape of a child under 13, and sexual assault. The prosecution, led by Alistair Campbell, detailed the disturbing nature of their encounters, noting that although Hussain and the girl occasionally used condoms, they did not always do so. On one occasion, the girl required a morning-after pill, highlighting the reckless and dangerous conduct involved.

The court also heard that the girl’s background made her particularly susceptible to grooming and exploitation. She had previously been subjected to sexual abuse by other men, creating what the judge described as “the perfect storm” of vulnerability. The grooming process was evident, and Hussain’s actions were characterized as deeply immoral and damaging.

Robin Frieze, representing Hussain, argued that there was no evidence to suggest Hussain actively sought out children on Facebook or that he had engaged with other young girls. He maintained that Hussain was unaware of her true age at the outset and had no knowledge of any exploitation by other men. However, Judge Jonathan Rose was unequivocal in his condemnation. Addressing Hussain directly, the judge stated, “Your disgraceful, immoral and deplorable behaviour has caused a huge amount of damage. She was already extremely vulnerable, and you knew she was just 12 years old. You did not become disgusted or remorseful after discovering her age. You continued, knowing full well what you were doing. That is why you are classified as a paedophile.”

He further emphasized the severity of Hussain’s actions, describing the garage where the abuse took place as devoid of any semblance of romance or affection. The judge’s words underscored the gravity of the case and the profound impact on the young victim, who was manipulated and exploited by a grown man who should have protected her instead.