Man jailed for 16 years after raping woman

A man who "preyed on potential victims" before raping a woman has been jailed for 16 years.

Mustafa Ogur, of Brookend Street in Ross on Wye, was found guilty after a trial at Worcester Crown Court and sentenced on Monday.

An investigation started after a woman was raped near Three Crosses Road and Springfield Road in Ross on Wye in the early hours of 21 July last year.

Police said CCTV showed the 24-year-old preying on others before the attack and witnesses described how he used Google translate on his phone to tell them, "I want to make love to you".

Ogur was arrested and charged with rape and sexual assault four days later.

West Mercia Police said when officers entered his home, they discovered him in the shower, having shaved his hair in an attempt to change his appearance and evade being recognised as the suspect.

Herefordshire CID Det Insp Ben Pearson said: "It takes such bravery to first report and then talk about such a horrific experience, and I commend the victim, who has shown incredible strength and courage throughout the investigation and trial.

"I understand that nothing will ever take away the pain and suffering from such an experience."

He added: "I am pleased with the sentencing given to Ogur yesterday. I'm unsure if a person capable of such an evil crime would reflect on the harm he has caused an innocent person, but I do know Ogur is a dangerous individual who will thankfully no longer be amongst our community for some time."

Following his sentence in prison, the 24-year-old will remain on extended licence for eight years and be subject to a lifetime sexual harm prevention order.

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