Man’s prison sentence extended after sexual assault in Rochdale

The sentence of a man who sexually assaulted a woman while she slept in her own home in Rochdale has been increased after an intervention by the Solicitor General.

The case was referred to the Solicitor General under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme, after Prashant Sawney, 32, was originally sentenced to one year in prison at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court.

Sawney had been drinking with friends at his home on the evening of his offences.

After helping an intoxicated friend back to his home that the friend shared with the victim, Sawney went into the victim’s bedroom, climbed into bed with her and sexually assaulted her.

The Court of Appeal has now increased his sentence to three years.

Speaking after the hearing, the Solicitor General, Robert Buckland QC MP, said: “Sawney took advantage of an individual while she slept in her own home – a place where she has a right to feel safe and unfortunately, no longer does.

“I hope that the Court of Appeal’s decision today brings her some comfort.”