A “dangerous paedophile” has been jailed after being found guilty of raping a young girl in Borehamwood.

Omar Hasan was branded a “dangerous offender” at St Albans Crown Court as he was sentenced to 16 years behind bars on Thursday.

The 26-year-old was found guilty of:

  • Oral rape of a girl under the age of 13
  • Attempted anal rape of a girl under the age of 13
  • Sexual assault of a child under the age of 13
  • Causing a child under 13 to watch a sexual act (three counts)
  • Engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child
  • Exposure

Hasan, formerly of Borehamwood, was convicted of all counts on Friday, October 1 following a two-week trial and was remanded back into custody ahead of sentencing.

The jury had previously heard how the offences occurred at an address in Borehamwood between September and October 2020.

Hasan was first arrested in October 2020 after another adult walked in on him sexually abusing the victim.

The victim told detectives how he coerced her to watch pornographic films before sexually assaulting and raping her.

Her Honour Judge Caroline Wigin branded Hasan a “dangerous offender” and ordered that he serve an additional five years on licence, meaning he could be recalled to prison any time up until 2042.

In addition, he must abide by the terms of an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order which prevents him from contacting the victim or her family, or from being in the company with any female under the age of 18.

His name will also be on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.

Detective Constable Jean-Pascal Beecroft said: “Hasan’s actions are truly sickening, and my thoughts remain with the victim who has seen and been subjected to things that no child ever should. Thankfully she has an excellent support network in place, which I hope will help her to move forwards.

“However, it must be acknowledged that child victims of sexual abuse are never able to forget what happened to them, and it’s something they have no choice but to live with for the rest of their lives.

“Hasan is a dangerous paedophile who manipulated his way into a position from which he could groom the young victim. He has blamed everyone but himself for his actions. Now he is behind bars and will always be subject to restrictions aimed to help safeguard young people.

“We pledge to always investigate every report we receive, pursuing predators and securing justice for victims.”

Anyone in Hertfordshire who has experienced sexual abuse or sexual violence can contact the Herts Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for practical and emotional support.

The centre can arrange face-to-face support, sexual health referrals, and provide forensic medical examinations for those who want them.