Man sentenced for raping 15-year-old girl in Harlow

Seya Mohammed, 19, was arrested after a 15-year-old girl disclosed that she had been raped while walking home from school in Harlow.

Mohammed, who lives in Clayburn Circle, Basildon, had persistently harassed the victim, leading her to secluded area before subjecting her to a serious sexual assault.

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He was charged with rape of a girl under the age of 16 and sexual assault on a girl aged 13 or over.

Mohammed appeared in Chelmsford Crown Court on September 16 where he denied the charges.

After being found guilty he was sentenced to six years in a young offender’s institution and will spend a further three years on extended licence.

Mohammed was also issued with a restraining order and put on the Sex Offenders Register for life.

Detective Constable Gary Mills said: “The investigative work to get this case to the court was a long process but was made possible by the strength the victim demonstrated.

“Mohammed pleaded not guilty, meaning that the victim in this case had to go through the difficult trial process.

Seya Mohammed. Picture: Essex Police (Image: Essex Police)

“Our Child Abuse Investigation Team were committed to getting justice, as we are with every case, and I am pleased that our work means Mohammed cannot put anyone else in danger."

Mohammed was arrested on November 28, last year when the victim came forward and disclosed what had happened two months later.

Following his arrest, Mohammed’s phone was seized, and his messages indicated his involvement.

Det Const Mills added: “In this case, the victim was not in the position to report until they disclosed to a close friend two months later.

“It’s a common misconception that to get justice in sexual offences investigations that the incident must be reported right away.

“We appreciate that this is not always possible and if you have been subjected to sexual assault, we will always investigate to the best of our abilities, no matter how recent.

“If you are a victim or survivor and want guidance or advice around what you have been through, there are a number of support services available to you in Essex.”