Raif Mentesh

Raif Mentesh, a 45-year-old man from Carlisle, has been sentenced to 14 years' imprisonment for committing serious child sex offences, including rape and sexual assault. The case, prosecuted by Cumbria Constabulary, came to light through an investigation into allegations of abuse against a single victim, with the incidents taking place prior to 2024.

At Carlisle Crown Court, Mentesh, residing at Dowbeck Road in Carlisle, was found guilty following a thorough trial. The court heard evidence detailing the nature of the offences, which involved the rape and sexual assault of a child. In addition to the custodial sentence, Mentesh was ordered to register with the police indefinitely under the Sex Offenders Register and was made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order to protect the public from further harm.

Detective Constable Linzi Wilkinson from Cumberland CID commented on the case, emphasising the seriousness with which such reports are treated. 'We take reports of this nature extremely seriously and we will do everything in our power to bring offenders to justice, as seen in this case,' she stated. The investigation was conducted by Cumbria Constabulary, highlighting their commitment to safeguarding children and pursuing justice for victims of sexual abuse.

The sentencing on 10 October 2025 marks a significant outcome in the effort to hold perpetrators accountable for child sex offences. This case underscores the importance of reporting such crimes to enable police intervention and support for affected individuals.