Sohail Zaffer

Sohail Zaffer, aged 41, pleaded guilty and was sentenced as part of the group of twenty men imprisoned for 219 years total for raping and abusing four girls in Calderdale, West Yorkshire. The sexual exploitation occurred from 2001 to 2010, with victims aged 12 to 16. Zaffer's offences were part of the 2016 investigation into two girls abused between 2006 and 2009.

In the first trial at Bradford Crown Court in October 2021, Zaffer admitted to rape and supplying a class C drug, receiving a sentence of 42 months. The case was subject to legal restrictions until recently, allowing West Yorkshire Police to publicise the convictions on Wednesday.

Detective Chief Inspector Claire Smith stated: “I welcome the sentences handed to these offenders for the abhorrent abuse these young girls were subjected to, which was heard by the jurors in each trial over the last few years.” The abuse involved drugs to facilitate exploitation, as evidenced in the plea.

West Yorkshire Police continues to prioritise such cases, with Smith adding: “Tackling child sexual exploitation and abuse is a top priority for West Yorkshire Police and our partners.” This prosecution builds on earlier efforts against grooming in the area.