Rapist who fled UK before trial jailed in absence

A rapist who fled the country before he could go on trial has been jailed in his absence for 18 years.

Aadel Nassrallah, 39, ran away to Syria before he could face justice, Newcastle Crown Court heard.

A trial was held in his absence and he was found guilty of offences including rape.

The victim said Nassrallah, who had lived in Elswick in Newcastle, "took the joy" out of her life.

In a statement read to the court, the woman said no-one could go through what she had without it "destroying their mental health".

"I lost the ability to be me," the woman said.

Recorder Mark Giuliani said Nassrallah was a serious sexual offender who was reportedly "trying to emulate what he had seen in pornographic movies" when he raped the woman.

The judge said Nassrallah "voluntarily absented himself from the jurisdiction" before the trial, adding: "I am aware he has returned to Syria."

A warrant was issued meaning Nassrallah would be detained and imprisoned were he to return to the UK or be extradited, the court heard.

Nassrallah would also have to sign the sex offender register for life.

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