A dangerous predator who threatened a woman with an imitation firearm before raping her in a Stockport park has been jailed for 22 years. Usama Al-Sari, 27, of Moorton Avenue, Manchester, was sentenced on Friday at Manchester Crown Court after pleading guilty to rape, sexual assault, intent to commit a sexual offence, possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, making threat to kill, and possession of a class B controlled drug.

He will serve 14 years in prison before being released on licence for a further eight years. Al-Sari will also be subject to an indefinite restraining order and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. The horrific attack happened on Tuesday September 9, 2025 in Heaton Mersey Park. Al-Sari approached the woman, forced her to accompany him while brandishing what appeared to be a gun, then raped her in the park. She later escaped and reached safety.

Public support proved vital: passers-by helped the victim immediately after the incident, and further calls from members of the public helped officers locate and arrest Al-Sari within an hour of the initial report. The imitation firearm recovered was confirmed as non-viable.

Following the sentencing, the victim said: “I want to thank the police for their care, professionalism, and safeguarding-led approach. Being supported and treated with dignity made a huge difference, and I hope this case encourages all institutions to reflect on how they support victims of serious violence.”

Detective Constable Heather Parke, the officer in the case, said: “Following this sentencing I hope this outcome provides reassurance to the victim and our wider communities. I want to commend the victim for her courage during this investigation. Coming forward and reporting this incident enabled our officers to ensure the offender saw justice and the victim was able to receive the right support.

“This is a shocking and incredibly rare incident and will have an immeasurable impact on the victim. We understand this incident is deeply concerning, and I want to reassure our communities that incidents of this nature are treated with the highest priority.

“Our commitment is to protect victims, provide the right care and support and pursue justice and we encourage any victims to come forward and report.”