Armed park rapist who called 999 to confess jailed

This article contains details of rape, sexual assault, violence, and intimidation. For a range of support please access the BBC Action Line

A rapist who threatened a woman with an imitation firearm before sexually assaulting her in a park called 999 to hand himself in after the attack.

Usama Al-Sari, from Manchester, approached his victim on 9 September and forced her to go with him to Heaton Mersey Park, Stockport, where he raped her.

She managed to flee and report her ordeal. Her 28-year-old attacker was arrested within an hour after reporting what he had done to a 999 call handler.

Al-Sari, who admitted rape, sexual assault, intent to commit a sexual offence, possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, making a threat to kill and possession of a Class B drug, will serve at least 14 years in prison.

On his release Al-Sari, of Moorton Avenue, will spend an additional eight years on license and will be subject to an indefinite restraining order and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Following sentencing on Friday, the victim thanked police for their support.

"I hope this case encourages all institutions to reflect on how they support victims of serious violence," she said.

"Being supported and treated with dignity made a huge difference."

Det Con Heather Parke said: "I hope this outcome provides reassurance to the victim and our wider communities.

"I want to commend the victim for her courage during this investigation.

"Coming forward and reporting this incident enabled our officers to ensure the offender saw justice and the victim was able to receive the right support.

"This is a shocking and incredibly rare incident and will have an immeasurable impact on the victim.

"We understand this incident is deeply concerning, and I want to reassure our communities that incidents of this nature are treated with the highest priority.

"Our commitment is to protect victims, provide the right care and support and pursue justice.

"We encourage any victims to come forward and report."

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