Man jailed for abusing 12-year-old boy

A man has been jailed for abusing a boy in Rochdale.

Atta Ur-Rehman (born 10/12/71) of Hearies Road, Sheffield, was found guilty after a trial of sexual activity with a child, sexual assault with a child by penetration and sexual assault.

Today, Monday 1 March 2010, he was sentenced to six years in jail.

Ur-Rehman's abuse took place in May 2009. His victim was a 12-year-old boy.

The victim was alone with Ur-Rehman in the study of his family house in Rochdale, while he was giving the boy Quran-reading lessons, when he was abused.

The boy, who was upset and embarrassed, told his mother about what happened, and his parents decided to confront Ur-Rehman with the allegation.

Ur-Rehman at first feigned ignorance, but then asked the boy's parents for forgiveness, claiming that all men make mistakes.

The boy's parents then called the police.

Detective Constable Kirsty Simcox said: "Ur-Rehman abused the trust the victim's parents placed in him in the most terrible way.

"It has been a horrific experience for the boy, and I hope that he and his family can move on from this after today.

"The boy showed immense courage to confide in his mother, and thankfully his parents then came to the police to ensure justice could be done.

"I hope this case sends a clear message that any report of abuse will be fully investigated by trained officers."

Anyone who has been a victim of rape or sexual assault can contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050 or 999 in an emergency. GMP has specially trained officers in place to provide a first class response to victims and help support them through the criminal justice process.

St Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester, can also be contacted on 0161 276 6515. This provides a comprehensive and coordinated forensic, counselling and medical aftercare service to anyone in Greater Manchester who has experienced rape or sexual assault. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and people can access them either as a self-referral or via Greater Manchester Police.