‘I want to ask you one question… why?’
This is the question bravely asked by a survivor to the man who raped her when they were teenagers.
*This is being shared now with the permission of the survivor.
Back in April 2019, 24 year old Ali Cayir, from Thames Ditton, raped a young girl who he had invited to his home.
Both Cayir and the victim were under 18 at the time. A few months later in December 2019, the young girl bravely came forward and reported the crime to police.
After facing delays in legal proceedings, her case was heard in court this year and following a one-week trial for a rape offence, Cayir was sentenced to six years in prison.
Speaking directly to the perpetrator, the now young woman, said: “I want to ask you one question as you sit there and listen to me speak… why? But whatever you say I won’t believe you. I don’t trust you’re capable of telling me the truth and taking responsibility.
“I have waited seven years for this day to come. If I asked you to wait for anything that long, would you? The day you chose to rape me you changed my life for the worst, your minutes of selfishness has ruined my perception on life.
“I see myself now as a survivor and not a victim. I will rebuild my life, one day and one step at a time, I know I can hold my head up high, knowing this was not my fault.”
Investigating officer, DC Daniel Baldwin said: “I would like to thank this strong young woman for coming forward and putting her trust in us to help bring this offender to justice. We hope the outcome of these proceedings has allowed her a form of closure or ability to move forward with pride. The impact that sexual offences have on survivors is lasting and profound and we remain committed to thoroughly investigating offences of this nature, so please do report any offences to us – we will listen.”
