Oxford man convicted of raping woman after fleeing the UK for over a decade

Salam Karis will be sentenced in March for attacking a young woman in 2014

Author: Shaunna BurnsPublished 16th Jan 2026

A 35-year-old man has been found guilty of raping a young woman in Oxford city centre in 2014 after evading justice for more than a decade.

Salam Karis committed the offences against the woman, who was visiting friends and enjoying a night out in Oxford, and was arrested for the crime on the same day.

However, Karis was released on bail after being charged and fled the country.

Thames Valley Police ensured his Fail to Appear warrant remained active, leading to his eventual arrest in Kent when he re-entered the UK years later.

After standing trial, Karis was convicted of three counts of rape and will be sentenced on 11th March 2026.

Thames Valley Police praised the victim for her bravery, saying she continued to support the investigation over the years and gave evidence in court to secure a conviction.

“We’re pleased that justice has now been served,” the force said, adding that their investigation was thorough despite the passage of time.

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