A 29-year-old man from Hereford, Twana Azize, has been sentenced to eight years in prison after raping a woman he met in a nightclub. The attack occurred in Hereford city centre in the early hours of a Sunday morning in May.
Police reported that Azize met his victim at a nightclub, isolated her from friends, and prevented her from getting a taxi home. He then led her to a secluded street and raped her. The victim managed to get home safely and reported the incident to authorities.
Azize was arrested following CCTV footage and subsequent searches. He denied the offences, but forensic examination of his clothes supported the evidence.
Azize was found guilty of rape at Worcester Crown Court on 22 August. He was sentenced on October 17 and ordered to register as a sex offender for life.
Detective Constable James Smith of Hereford Reactive CID said: “Azize preyed on a woman enjoying a night out and forcibly prevented her from getting home safely. This custodial sentence ensures justice and sends a message that sexual predators will be held accountable.”
