A man who kidnapped and raped a 17-year-old girl has been jailed.

Mohammed Atif Khan, 37, was said to have driven past the victim, who was with her friends and waiting to be picked up by her family.

CCTV cameras on August 28 last year showed Khan reversing back and parking up near Waterhouse Street in Hemel Hempstead, before he got the victim into his vehicle.

He then began to drive her to Chesham before both sexually assaulting and raping her.

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Khan then drove the traumatised victim back to Hemel Hempstead and told her she could get out of the car, leaving her to make her way back to the town centre where she was later collected by her family. 

Watford Observer: Luton Crown CourtLuton Crown Court

After police launched their investigation, a white Volkswagen Polo that was registered to Khan was traced and he was arrested on September 1.

Phone data analysis also placed Khan in the same locations as the victim at the time of the offences. Khan was later charged and pleaded not guilty.

Khan, of Upper Meadow in Chesham, appeared at Luton Crown Court today (May 25) for sentencing.

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He received 10 years for kidnap, and then 15 years with an eight-year licence extension for rape, oral rape and sexual assault by penetration.

Detective Inspector Justine Jenkins, said: “I am pleased that Khan will be behind bars for a very long time after being found guilty of these appalling crimes. Because this despicable man refused to admit what he had done his victim had to relive the traumatic events of that night so that he could be convicted.

“I would like to pay tribute to this young woman for her incredible courage throughout the whole investigation and court case. She has been supported by specially trained officers throughout and has also received additional help from partner organisations. I hope she can begin to rebuild her life now.”

Anyone who has experienced sexual abuse or violence can contact the Herts Sexual Assault Referral Centre through the 24/7 helpline on 0808 178 4448 or by emailing Herts.SARC@nhs.net.

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