Sex offender denied appeal of sentence and Sexual Offences Prevention Order

The Court of Appeal has refused Zakaria Laaraj’s bid to challenge his seven year prison sentence and a ten year Sexual Offences Prevention Order. Laaraj was convicted by a jury in February 2025 of 13 sexual offences against two girls, involving sexual touching and kissing. He was sentenced in May last year.

The appeal judge said Laaraj remains in “absolute denial” over the offending. Although his pre sentence report assessed him as posing a low risk, the court noted that one of the risk assessment tools placed him at moderate risk.

The judge said the original sentencing judge had carefully considered the sentencing guidelines and the principle of totality. Most sentences were ordered to run concurrently, apart from the lead count relating to each of the two victims, which the court said was consistent with the guidelines.

The original sentence was described as detailed and measured, and not manifestly excessive.

On the Sexual Offences Prevention Order, the judge said its purpose is to protect the public.Laaraj’s denial, lack of remorse and lack of motivation to change his behaviour were said to be relevant when assessing risk.

Both applications were refused.