In January 2024, Harrhys Rafiq, a 26-year-old shop worker from Water Avens Close in St. Mellons, Cardiff, committed a sexual assault against a customer at Shad's Bishopston Premier Stores on Bishopston Road. Rafiq, the son of the shop owner, was on shift when the incident occurred. According to court proceedings at Cardiff Crown Court, the victim entered the store and was approached by Rafiq, who proceeded to touch her bottom while complimenting her appearance. He then pressed his aroused groin against her back and touched her bottom and side with his hands.
Prosecutor Bethan Evans presented CCTV footage to the court, which captured Rafiq walking over to the victim and pressing himself against her. The footage showed the victim pulling away and initiating a dispute with him. When challenged, Rafiq laughed at her, an action that the judge later described as particularly dismissive. The incident left the victim deeply affected, as detailed in her victim personal statement read out in court. She described suffering from severe mental health issues, including paranoia, constant anxiety, panic attacks, and isolation. 'I wake up crying with the anxiety. I’m always tired. Every day my mind is just racing all the time,' she stated, highlighting how the assault had disrupted her sleep, relationships, and daily life.
Rafiq pleaded guilty to the offence of sexual assault. During the hearing on 23 October 2024, he contested some aspects of the prosecution's account, shaking his head and telling Judge Lucy Crowther that 'there are some parts that aren't true.' However, the judge affirmed the events as captured on CCTV and emphasised the impact on the victim. In her sentencing remarks, Judge Crowther noted: 'This was a very embarrassing and humiliating experience. She had no idea why you would behave like this towards her. You’ve made her feel very vulnerable and very anxious.' She described the assault as bewildering and highlighted how it had caused the victim disturbed sleep and feelings of isolation in her home and community.
Defence barrister Christopher Evans argued that Rafiq had no previous convictions, had recently married, and continued working in the family business. He described the court proceedings as overwhelming for his client. Considering Rafiq's early guilty plea, which warranted a 20% reduction, Judge Crowther imposed a 10-month community order rather than custody. This included 100 hours of unpaid work and a 10-day rehabilitation activity requirement. Following the assault, the victim had contacted Rafiq's father to complain and reported the matter to the police, leading to his arrest and prosecution.
The case was heard at Cardiff Crown Court, with reporting by Wales Online based on the proceedings. South Wales Police investigated the incident, confirming the details through CCTV evidence and witness statements.