In a harrowing case that has shaken a community, an Iranian asylum seeker who fled custody after allegedly assaulting two teenage girls has been sentenced to two years in prison. The emotional toll of these attacks has left one victim grappling with severe mental health struggles, including a reported suicide attempt.
Pirouz Mofrad, 23, was convicted of two counts of sexual assault at Southampton Crown Court after a series of disturbing incidents involving girls aged 15 and 14. The attacks took place in December 2023 and February 2024, leaving the victims feeling unsafe and traumatized.
According to court documents, Mofrad approached the first victim at a bus stop, making unsettling comments and attempting to touch her. Despite her pleas that she was “too young,” he reportedly ignored her distress and continued to invade her personal space. The second incident involved the 14-year-old, who was with friends when Mofrad allegedly approached them, making them uncomfortable with his behavior.
Following these incidents, Mofrad was taken into custody. However, he managed to escape from a mental health facility in November 2025, only to be recaptured the next day. His history includes prior convictions for criminal damage, adding to the concerns surrounding his behavior.
In a poignant statement read in court, the 15-year-old victim shared the profound impact the assault had on her life. She expressed feelings of anxiety, sadness, and fear, revealing that she had even contemplated ending her life as a way to escape the pain. Her mother also noted a significant decline in her mental health and academic performance following the attack.
Judge Nicholas Rowland addressed the victim directly, commending her bravery in coming forward and reminding her that her courage in facing this ordeal does not define her. He emphasized the importance of feeling safe in public spaces, especially for young individuals.
As the community processes the aftermath of these incidents, the question remains: how can we better protect our youth from such traumatic experiences?
