A Barnsley man has been jailed after a jury at Sheffield Crown Court found him guilty of sexually assaulting two women following a night out in the town in February 2023. Haranand Rai, aged 35 and formerly of Tennyson Road, Barnsley, was sentenced to six years' imprisonment at the same court on 31 July.
Court process and verdict
The case reached trial after Rai pleaded not guilty to two sexual offence charges. The trial, which lasted four days, required the victims to give account of their experiences in open court; the jury ultimately returned guilty verdicts. The court hearing and subsequent sentence underline the criminal justice process followed when complainants pursue prosecution despite the personal cost of testifying.
Police comment and victims’ courage
"This was a deeply distressing ordeal for both women who should never have been subjected to Rai's predatory behaviour," Detective Constable Courtney Moorby said, adding that the victims had shown courage in supporting the investigation.
Detective Constable Moorby also stressed that Rai did not accept responsibility for his actions and commended the two women for coming forward. She reiterated the police message that victims of sexual offences will be listened to and treated with respect and dignity by officers and partner organisations.
Case details at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Haranand Rai, 35 |
| Address | Tennyson Road, Barnsley |
| Offences | Two sexual assaults |
| Incident | After a night out in Barnsley, February 2023 |
| Trial length | Four days |
| Sentence | Six years' imprisonment (sentenced 31 July) |
Support and reporting
Local residents affected by sexual assault are encouraged to report incidents to the police or partner support organisations. As the investigating officer reminded the public, victims will be treated with respect and dignity from the moment they come forward.
- If you are a victim of a sexual offence, contact South Yorkshire Police via their non-emergency public channels or dial 999 in an emergency.
- Specialist support services and victim support organisations can offer counselling and practical assistance through the court process.
- Coming forward may assist investigations and prevent further offending; the case highlights the role victim testimony can play in securing convictions.
This conviction and sentence will be of concern to Barnsley residents who use the town centre at night. The case also illustrates the emotional toll on complainants who give evidence at trial, and the reliance of the criminal justice system on their willingness to do so.
Further information about reporting and support is available from South Yorkshire Police and local victim support charities.
