Man jailed for raping woman in Leeds in attack that left her fearing for her life

A man has been jailed for raping a woman in Leeds in a “terrifying” attack that left her fearing for her life.

Uvesh Vahora, 36, was found guilty of one count of rape on November 3 following a trial at Leeds Crown Court.

He appeared at court today to be sentenced.

The incident on Autumn Avenue, Hyde Park, on the night of April 9 was the subject of a police appeal at the time.

The victim was able to identify the property where the offence took place and Vahora, who was living there at the time, was arrested.

The court was told Vahora, who police say self-defines as Asian Indian, was in the country as a student.

Speaking after Vahora was convicted, Detective Inspector Tom Crosfill said: “Vahora has subjected the victim to a terrifying experience with her being in genuine fear for her life thinking that he was going to kill her.

“After disclosing the offence to friends, she contacted police with officers arresting Vahora within around five hours of this offence taking place. He has been held on remand since that time.

“In the meantime, those working on this investigation have gathered the evidence including victim and witness statements, CCTV and digital lines of enquiry that has led to Vahora’s conviction.

“I understand how incredibly difficult it can be to report rape and other sexual offences and I really hope that this conviction demonstrates how seriously an offence of this nature is treated from the outset.

“Our message to victims is that you will be listened to, you will be supported and we will do everything possible to bring perpetrators before the courts.”

Vahora, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to nine years in prison and ordered to register as a sex offender indefinitely.