Carlisle Man Jailed For Sexual Exploitation Of Young Girls

15/05/2012

The owner of a Carlisle takeaway has been jailed for 15 years for inciting child prostitution and for paying two teenagers for sex.

Azad Miah was also found guilty of running a brothel from his business.  He was found guilty after trial at Carlisle Crown Court.

Linda Vance, District Crown Prosecutor from CPS North West said:

"Over a number of years Azad Miah targeted young girls for sex, deliberately  selecting teenagers who were particularly vulnerable, either because they were addicted to drugs or because they came from troubled backgrounds. 

"He preyed on these particular girls because he thought they were easier to exploit because of their vulnerability. 

"Even though he knew that they were under 16 he repeatedly approached them, followed them and bombarded them with text messages, sometimes for weeks at a time, pestering them for sex in exchange for money, drugs or alcohol.  

"In many instances the girls refused to succumb to his persistent demands.  He persuaded one girl, aged 15, to have sex with him on numerous occasions for money because of her heroin addiction.  She tried to get away from him by moving away from the area but the exploitation continued when she returned.  Another girl, who was bombarded with texts at the age of 16, out of financial desperation had sex with him.

"Azad Miah is a sexual predator.  Through the detailed investigation by police, the thorough preparation of the case by prosecutors and, most importantly, the courage of the victims in coming forward he is now facing justice.

"I would urge anyone who has been a victim of any sexual offence not to suffer in silence but to speak to police so that they can investigate.  At the CPS we have specialist rape prosecutors who have expertise in dealing with sexual offences cases and we will work with the police and the courts to ensure that victims are given the best possible support throughout the progress of the case."

Miah was found guilty of four counts of paying for the sexual services of a child, five counts of inciting child prostitution and one count of keeping a brothel.