Wahidullah Hotak

Wahidullah Hotak, a 26-year-old shop worker from Douglas Road, Birmingham, was jailed for 10 years at Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday 7 May 2025 for the rape of a woman in her twenties. The assault occurred in the early hours of 28 February 2024 at a shop on Wednesbury High Street where Hotak was working behind the counter.

The victim had entered the store to purchase a vape and asked to use the toilet. Once she was inside, Hotak followed and raped her. She immediately confided in a friend, who supported her in reporting the crime to West Midlands Police later that same day. Officers attended the premises within hours, securing it as a crime scene for forensic enquiries.

Hotak was arrested the same day and interviewed. Forensic examination of samples and clothing produced a full DNA profile matching Hotak, with the probability of the DNA belonging to another person being a billion to one. Despite the overwhelming evidence, Hotak denied the charge of rape and stood trial at Birmingham Crown Court, where he was convicted in February 2025.

Following the conviction, PC Precious Harris of the West Midlands Police rape and serious sexual offences investigation unit stated: "Specialist officers within West Midlands Police worked alongside the Crown Prosecution Service on this case, which has rightly resulted in a 10-year sentence for the offender. The victim was supported by family, friends, and police partner agencies throughout the investigation and trial. It is the victim's bravery and courage in reporting this matter to the police, and giving her evidence at court, that has ultimately led to her receiving the justice and closure that she so truly deserves."

Judge at Birmingham Crown Court imposed a 10-year custodial sentence on Hotak for the offence of rape. The case highlighted the importance of forensic evidence and victim testimony in securing convictions for sexual offences.