The latest conviction came after a victim was prompted to come forward following an episode of the show titled “The Predator”
Author: Isabella HudsonPublished 2 hours ago
A case featured on 24 Hours in Police Custody has led to a further rape conviction after encouraging another victim to come forward.
Mohammed Altaher, already serving time for two rapes in Bedfordshire, has been convicted of another rape after his case was featured in the TV series.
Altaher was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2023 for two sexual assaults on men he met through the dating app Grindr in Bedfordshire.
The latest conviction came after a victim was prompted to come forward following an episode of the show titled “The Predator.”
Bedfordshire Police’s Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) team, alongside Thames Valley Police, led the investigation into the new allegations.
The episode’s footage contributed to securing additional evidence, which led to Altaher being charged.
On 8th April, Altaher, 41, residing at HMP Bure, Norfolk, was found guilty of rape at Aylesbury Crown Court.
He received a five-year prison sentence, with seven years extended licence, concurrently running with his existing sentence.
PC Heather Hutchinson from the RASSO team said: “Not only does 24 Hours in Police Custody play a vital role in educating the public on issues such as consent, but it also helps to build public trust and gives victims the confidence to come forward.
“Viewers can see investigations handled with care, professionalism and persistence, and for those watching who may be carrying their own trauma in silence, it can be the catalyst that gives them the strength to speak out and seek help.
“I want to commend the immense bravery of the original victims who first spoke out about their experiences, as well as the courage shown by the victim who came forward after the programme aired.
“In this case, that courage led directly to further evidence being secured and a dangerous offender being held to account.
“Altaher showed no care or compassion for his victims, and I hope the conviction and sentence provide some sense of closure for those affected.”
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