Accrington 70-year-old handed life sentence for assaulting two women
Shah Nawaz targeted victims with learning difficulties
Shah Nawaz, a 70-year-old man from Accrington, has been sentenced to life in prison after admitting to the rape and sexual assault of two women with learning difficulties.
The sentencing took place at Preston Crown Court on 10th June, where Nawaz was described by Judge Robert Altham as an 'extremely dangerous, predatory sexual offender' due to his long history of sexual crimes.
The judge ordered Nawaz to serve a minimum of 13 years and 362 days behind bars before he can apply for parole.
Nawaz has a criminal record dating back to 1982 when he was jailed for rape, followed by another sentence in 1988 for sexual offences against teenagers.
His latest crimes involved two victims who were unaware of each other's existence.
The first victim, a woman in her 20s, was sexually assaulted and raped by Nawaz in his car.
The second victim, in her 40s, was attacked both at Nawaz's home and at her residence.
Nawaz initially denied all charges and prepared to stand trial.
After his victims provided evidence, Nawaz opted to plead guilty to six charges of rape, six charges of sexual assault, and two charges of assault by penetration.
Investigating officer, DC David Richardson from the East Rape and Serious Sexual Offences team, commended the bravery of the victims.
He said, “The victims have been incredibly brave in coming forward and going through the investigation and court process.
Nawaz’s offending has spanned five decades, and the sentence imposed by the judge will ensure that he cannot target vulnerable people in Accrington again."
Richardson also urged other victims to report crimes, saying: "If you have been a victim of crime, please report it to us by contacting 101 and we will support you and investigate."