Syed Abdul Jabbar, the former Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, has been sentenced to three years in prison for perverting the course of justice. The sentencing occurred this week at Preston Crown Court, following his efforts to help his son, Ifzal Jabbar, conceal evidence related to the rape of a 15-year-old girl. Ifzal Jabbar was previously sentenced to 12 years in prison for rape, voyeurism, and sexual assault.

The court heard that Syed Abdul Jabbar, aged 67, engaged in a deliberate and sustained attempt to mislead police following his son's arrest in 2021. His actions included disposing of crucial evidence, attempting to destroy digital devices, and coaching his son on how to evade justice. These efforts significantly complicated the initial police investigation into the serious offenses committed by Ifzal Jabbar.

Key details of the case include:

  • Defendant: Syed Abdul Jabbar, former Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen (2011-2012).
  • Offense: Perverting the course of justice.
  • Sentence: Three years imprisonment.
  • Court: Preston Crown Court.
  • Son's Offenses: Ifzal Jabbar (aged 21 at the time of the offense, 24 at sentencing) was convicted of rape, voyeurism, and sexual assault against a 15-year-old girl.
  • Son's Sentence: 12 years imprisonment.
  • Father's Actions: Moving evidence, changing his son's clothes, cleaning a car associated with the incident, disposing of mobile phones, and providing false guidance to his son.

During the proceedings, Judge Simon Medland KC described Syed Abdul Jabbar's actions as "a deliberate, sustained and sophisticated attempt to avoid justice being served." The prosecution highlighted the extensive nature of his interference, which included a visit to the crime scene to remove items and attempts to format or dispose of digital devices that could have contained incriminating evidence.

The police investigation revealed that Syed Abdul Jabbar had actively participated in concealing evidence. This included driving his son away from the scene, taking his son to buy new clothes to replace those worn during the assault, and visiting the location of the offense to remove any potential evidence. Authorities stated that the former mayor's involvement presented significant challenges for detectives attempting to piece together the events and secure justice for the victim.

The sentencing of Syed Abdul Jabbar underscores the serious legal consequences for individuals who obstruct justice, regardless of their past public office or familial relationships. Law enforcement officials commented on the lengths to which the former mayor went to protect his son, emphasizing the determination of the justice system to prosecute those who attempt to subvert it. The case highlights the principle that no one is above the law when it comes to interfering with criminal investigations.