Paedophile Jailed for 19 Years for Systematic Abuse of Young Girl

Muhammed Irfan, 35, from Sparkhill, Birmingham, has been sentenced to 19 years in prison for raping a child under the age of 13 over a three-year period. The conviction followed a five-day trial at Birmingham Crown Court, where the victim bravely shared her experience with the police.

Irfan's heinous actions included threatening the victim's family to ensure she remained silent about the abuse. The victim's statement, read to the jury, revealed the profound impact the abuse had on her childhood. She described struggling with behavioral issues and explained how she now understands the source of her difficulties.

"Throughout my childhood and in school, I was what I would describe as a naughty child," she stated. "I would fight boys, be disruptive, answer teachers back and just not go to lessons. It is only now I am old enough to realise why I was like this."

Expressing relief at Irfan's conviction, the victim shared her hope for healing, although acknowledging the long road ahead. "I am so glad other people have believed what happened to me and the regular abuse I suffered. Although I am happy knowing he is going to prison, I still don't know if I will ever be able to move on from what has happened to me."

Detective Constable Tom Parkes, from the Public Protection Unit, commended the victim's courage and emphasized the importance of support services for victims of abuse. "This young girl should have been enjoying her school years and preparing for adulthood. The abuse she suffered has clearly had a long-term traumatic effect and I hope this sentence helps to put her on the road to recovery. We work with specialist agencies who can offer support from the moment a crime is reported, through the investigation and trial process, and beyond."

Irfan was sentenced on September 18, with an extended licence period of one year. He will not be eligible for parole for at least ten years and will remain on the Sex Offender Register for life.