Guilty verdict in Telford rape case hailed by police

A guilty verdict on a man who raped a young woman and sexually assaulted another has been welcomed by the detective who worked on the case.

Detective Inspector Mike Nally said he was pleased that 23-year-old Paul Ahoto, of no fixed abode, was found guilty of one count of rape, one count of sexual assault and one count of false imprisonment.

He was convicted at Shrewsbury Crown Court on Friday.

Judge Robin Onions ordered a psychiatric report before Ahoto is sentenced.

He said he was considering a hospital order or a long prison sentence and warned Ahoto he could face deportation. The offences – against two young women in Telford – occurred between September 2010 and November 2011.

Mr Nally, who is based in CID at Malinsgate Police Station, said: “We are pleased with the three guilty verdicts and hope these convictions act as some consolation for the victims and their families as they move forward with their lives.

“Only Paul Ahoto himself knows the reason why he committed these offences – offences that have had a serious impact on the lives of many people and that he has continued to deny throughout his trial.

“The victims, who were supported by specially train- ed officers during the investigative process, have shown incredible bravery and determination to support this prosecution and I cannot praise them highly enough.

“I would personally like to thank them for the patience and dignity they have shown throughout the investigation and what has been a complex criminal justice process. I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the many members of the public who took the time to come forward and offer information.

“I hope these convictions demonstrate that West Mercia Police will do all it can to support the victims of this type of crime and, although offences remains rare, I also hope it shows that when they do occur we will do everything within our powers to bring any individual responsible to justice.”