Mohammed Patel, a 43-year-old resident of Troy Street in Blackburn, Lancashire, appeared at Blackburn Magistrates' Court charged with failing to comply with sex offender registration requirements. As a classified high-risk sex offender, Patel was required to notify police of any changes to his circumstances, including international travel and return.
The court heard that Patel had travelled to South Africa in May to participate in a six-month drug rehabilitation programme. Prior to his departure, he informed the police of his plans, demonstrating awareness of his obligations. However, upon his return in November, Patel neglected to register his updated address with the authorities, an omission that prompted the legal action against him.
Prosecutor Graeme Tindall outlined the details during the hearing, stating, 'On his return, he should have registered his address with the police, but failed to do so.' Tindall emphasised Patel's status as a high-risk offender and noted that this was not an isolated incident, as Patel had previous convictions for similar non-compliance.
In mitigation, Zabair Afzal argued that Patel's failure to register was an oversight rather than an attempt to evade authorities. Afzal explained, 'He was there for six months and he says it was a great help. When he returned, he simply forgot to register; he wasn't trying to hide from the police.' The defence highlighted the positive impact of the rehabilitation programme on Patel's recovery from drug issues.
Deputy District Judge Rita Pice, presiding over the case, acknowledged Patel's prior awareness of the requirements, remarking that he had been 'well aware of what was required because he had previous convictions for not complying.' Despite the breach, the judge opted for a lenient approach, sentencing Patel to 26 weeks' imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, along with 10 days of rehabilitation activity requirements. Additionally, Patel was ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £154 victim surcharge.
The case, reported by Lancashire Telegraph court reporter Andrew Bellard, underscores the strict monitoring imposed on sex offenders in the UK to ensure public safety and compliance with legal obligations under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.