17-year-old’s parents and victims father also convicted
A TEENAGER, who raped his 12-year-old cousin following an ‘illegal marriage’, has been convicted at Wood Green Crown Court.
The 17-year-old was found guilty of rape by a jury today following a three week trial at Wood Green Crown Court.
His parents, both aged 54, and the 12-year-old victim’s father, 29, were also convicted of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity.
None of the guilty can be named following reporting restrictions placed by the judge to protect the victim.
All four have been bailed to appear for sentencing on 22 December 2009 at Wood Green Crown Court.
The court was told the victim was taken by her father to his brother’s house in south London in March 2008 where she underwent an ‘illegal marriage’ to her cousin, then aged 16.
After the marriage the victim’s father and the teenager’s parents allowed the pair to engage in a sexual act.
The teenager, his parents and the victim’s father were arrested in April 2008 and charged by officers from Haringey’s Child Abuse Investigation Team.
Follwing today’s conviction, the victim’s mother spoke out about her daughter’s “nightmare”.
“What happened to my daughter was a nightmare; today’s convictions will help us move on,” she said.
“Haringey Child Abuse Team have been very supportive through the case. If you have been forced into a marriage or have been victim to such sexual abuse, there is help out there. The Police will help you. Do not feel frightened to speak out.”
Detective Inspector Noel McHugh, who led the investigation, said: “This has been an exceptionally challenging investigation and we are grateful to all those who assisted with the case and ensured these convictions today.
“We worked closely with, and are particularly indebted to, Haringey Council Children Services, the National Association of Muslim Police and the Henna Foundation, who help women cope with forced marriages, for their expert guidance.
“The offences committed are incomprehensible and the victim is a truly brave girl who suffered at the hands of those who should have offered her protection. She and her mother assisted the investigation throughout and, due to their courage, we have been able to ensure justice here today.”
