Mirzabek Toshpulatov

On 26 February 2023, in the early hours, Mirzabek Toshpulatov, then 21 and residing in North Street, Wellington, Somerset, attacked and sexually assaulted a young woman in the White Hart Lane area of the town. The assault involved sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault by touching, to which Toshpulatov later pleaded guilty.

Following the incident, a witness appeal by Avon and Somerset Police aided in identifying Toshpulatov as the perpetrator. However, he had fled the area and was not apprehended until October 2023, when he was arrested in Essex. The police investigation highlighted the rarity of such stranger assaults in Wellington, with Detective Constable Natalie Norman stating: "Incidents of sexual assault are incredibly rare in Wellington and for it to have been committed by a stranger is even more unusual." She praised the victim's courage in reporting the crime, noting: "We would like to recognise the courage the woman showed in reporting this to police and helping us focus on bringing this dangerous offender to justice. Had she not done so, Toshpulatov would still be on the streets."

On 16 February 2024, at Taunton Crown Court, Toshpulatov was sentenced to an extended term of 11 years and three months' imprisonment, with the final three years to be served on licence. He is also required to register as a sex offender upon release. The victim provided a poignant statement to the court, describing the profound impact of the assault: "The day after it happened, I felt so overwhelmed in trying to understand what had happened to me. Everything we did for the investigation was a new experience for me and I didn't know what would happen from it." She added that the incident has left lifelong effects, not only on her but also on her family, who now worry about her safety wherever she goes, fearing recurrence for herself or others.

This case underscores the challenges in pursuing justice for sexual offences, particularly when the offender attempts to evade capture. Avon and Somerset Police's efforts, supported by witness information, ensured Toshpulatov's accountability. The sentencing reflects the severity of the crimes committed against the victim, who continues to process the trauma.