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"Depraved" rapist who attacked woman with down syndrome refused extra time to appeal

Summary

Faisal Ellahi, 37, from Haripur, Pakistan, was convicted of raping a young woman with Down syndrome after a five‑week trial at the Central Criminal Court. He denied the charge, claiming the victim had actively participated and that he was unaware of her mental impairment. The judge described the offence as "frightening, appalling, disgusting and depraved" and sentenced him to 13 years' imprisonment. Ellahi attempted to appeal after 19 months, beyond the 28‑day deadline, citing emotional distress. The Court of Appeal, led by Mr Justice George Birmingham, refused him extra time, noting the lack of a realistic prospect of success and the compelling prosecution evidence. The court highlighted the victim's dignity and the impact on her independence, while acknowledging the delay in the appeal process. The case remains at the conviction stage.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: "Depraved" rapist who attacked woman with down syndrome refused extra time to appeal. Charges or matters: rape and sexual assault by a jury at the Central Criminal Court following a five-week trial. Procedural stage: appeal. Findings: Found guilty

When:

• March 2016 Incident
• 2019-05-31 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Appeal

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Read the original CNI report