Northwich shopkeeper guilty of sexually assaulting girl, 14

Furqan Khalil was convicted by a jury at Chester Crown Court following a four-day trial which concluded on Thursday, August 27.

Jurors found the 28-year-old guilty of one count of sexual assault relating to an allegation he touched the teenager’s bottom.

He was found not guilty of a second count of touching her leg and genitals. The offences related to an incident on February 3, 2024.

During the trial, the court heard, the girl entered Cheshire Mobile and E-Cigarettes in Market Way, Northwich, to buy a phone charger.

While in the shop, she also asked about buying a vape.

Prosecutors alleged Khalil touched the girl inappropriately while showing her a selection of vapes before telling her to wait outside because CCTV cameras were operating inside the premises.

Once outside the shop, the court heard he again behaved inappropriately towards the girl while discussing the vape purchase.

The assault happened at Cheshire Mobile and E-Cigarettes, where Khalil was working back in February 2024 (Image: NQ)

During the trial, the prosecution said the defendant suggested she carry out ‘favours’ in return for being sold the vape.

Instead, the victim’s friend attacked him, causing him to run back into the shop and lock up and leave quickly.  

Khalil, of Rishton Lane, Bolton, was released on bail and is due to return to Chester Crown Court on Friday, October 9, for sentencing.

Following the verdict, Detective Sergeant Helen Harrison said: “I welcome today’s outcome and hope this conviction will provide reassurance to the victim, and local residents, and also acts as a warning to other people who feel it is acceptable to act in this manner.

“We treat all reports of sexual offences extremely seriously, and any allegation will be thoroughly investigated, with the wishes and needs of the victim our main priority.

“Victims should never feel ashamed to talk about what they have been subjected to.

“They will receive the help and support they need from our specialist officers, as well as from other support agencies we work alongside, and all victims of sexual offences have the right to anonymity.”

To report any sexual offence call Cheshire Constabulary on 101 or visit https://www.cheshire.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/v1/rape-sexual-assault-other-sexual-offences