Aadel Nassrallah

Aadel Nassrallah, 39, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison at Newcastle Crown Court after being found guilty in his absence of offences including rape. Nassrallah, who had lived in Elswick, Newcastle, fled the UK for Syria prior to his trial.

During the proceedings, the court heard from the victim, who provided a statement detailing the significant impact the assault had on her mental health and quality of life. Recorder Mark Giuliani noted that Nassrallah, deemed a serious sexual offender, had attempted to emulate adult content during the commission of the offence.

As Nassrallah was tried and found guilty in his absence, a warrant has been issued for his arrest. Should he return to the UK or be extradited, he will be required to serve the 18-year custodial sentence. Additionally, the judge ordered that Nassrallah must sign the sex offender register for life.