'Predator' caught 'red-handed' trying to rape woman near Buckingham Palace let go by police

Daily MirrorIndependentProgressive14 hr. ago

Ramzi Barkat, 54, was convicted of attempting to rape a woman near Buckingham Palace in central London. He followed the woman out of St James's Park in the early hours of September 7, 2024, after she rejected his advances. Barkat physically assaulted the woman, grabbing her wrists and straddling her, until three soldiers intervened and stopped the attack. During the trial at Southwark Crown Court, Judge Justin Cole criticized the police for their handling of the case, describing their actions as a 'catalogue of incompetencies.' Despite being caught in the act, Barkat was released on bail or under investigation for a year before being convicted. He was sentenced to seven years and three months in prison, along with a 10-year sexual harm prevention order and a 10-year restraining order. Barkat denied the charges, claiming he only intended to steal the woman's phone.

Bias read (Progressive): The article emphasizes the failure of law enforcement, criticizes the police for releasing a known predator, and highlights the bravery of the soldiers who intervened. This framing underscores systemic issues within policing and supports victims of crime, aligning with progressive values.

The IndependentIndependentProgressive15 hr. ago

A 54-year-old man named Ramzi Barkat was caught attempting to rape a woman near Buckingham Palace but was released by police for a year, according to a judge's ruling. The incident occurred on September 7, 2024, in St James’s Park, where Barkat, who was born in Algeria, chased the woman, tackled her, and straddled her after she rejected his advances. Three soldiers intervened after hearing her screams. Despite being convicted of attempted rape and assault, the judge criticized the police for their handling of the case, stating that Barkat was 'let go' during a time when he posed a 'continuing danger to the public.' The judge sentenced Barkat to seven years and three months in prison and imposed a 10-year sexual harm prevention order. The judge also praised the soldiers for their bravery.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the police's decision to release Barkat as a failure of duty and public safety, using strong language like 'catalogue of incompetencies' and 'continuing danger to the public.' It emphasizes the vulnerability of the victim and criticizes the authorities for not acting decisively, a