RAPIST JAILED IN ABSENCE FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AFTER FLEEING UK
A man convicted of rape, who escaped the country prior to his trial, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison in his absence.
Aadel Nassrallah, aged 39, fled to Syria before standing trial, Newcastle Crown Court was told.
Despite not being present, a trial proceeded and Nassrallah was convicted of multiple offences, including rape.
The victim described how Nassrallah, formerly residing in Elswick, Newcastle, had devastated her life by his actions.
In a statement read aloud in court, she expressed that no one could endure what she experienced without suffering severe mental health impacts
She stated, “I lost the ability to be me.” Recorder Mark Giuliani described Nassrallah as a serious offender who appeared to attempt to imitate sexual acts seen in pornography when committing the assault.
The judge noted that Nassrallah deliberately left the UK before the trial, and confirmed that he had since returned to Syria.
A warrant was issued for his arrest, meaning he would face detention and imprisonment if he returned to Britain or was extradited.
Additionally, Nassrallah is required to register as a sex offender for life.