⚠️This article contains descriptions that some readers may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.
A 27-year-old Wellington chef who sexually assaulted a woman and later performed indecent acts on a public bus has been sentenced to 27 months in prison, after a judge dismissed claims that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused his offending.
It is reported by NZ Herald that Aakash Aakash was convicted of unlawful sexual connection, indecent assault, and three counts of committing an indecent act.
The charges stemmed from a violent sexual assault and subsequent lewd behaviour committed while he was on bail.
As per NZ Herald, the Wellington District Court heard that Aakash first came to police attention late last year after biting a woman’s nipples so hard they bled. While awaiting trial for that offence, he was caught masturbating in front of members of the public while waiting for, and travelling on, a bus.
It is further reported that a clinical psychologist’s report presented at sentencing suggested Aakash’s PTSD, caused by childhood abuse, might have contributed to his behaviour. However, as per NZ Herald, Judge Noel Sainsbury rejected that argument, saying it was “a bit of a jump” to suggest PTSD was directly responsible for the second round of offending.
The judge acknowledged PTSD may have affected Aakash’s mental health and made him more vulnerable but said it could not excuse his actions.
According to court documents reported by NZ Herald, Aakash had been drinking with friends when one woman became heavily intoxicated and was put to bed. She later awoke in severe pain to find Aakash biting her nipples. Despite her attempts to stop him, Aakash continued by groping her and sexually violating her.
It is reported that the victim told the court she now suffers from flashbacks, sleepless nights, and a loss of trust in others. Another woman, who witnessed Aakash’s behaviour on the bus, expressed concern that children could have seen his actions.
Judge Sainsbury said the victim impact statements made for “sad and traumatic reading,” describing the offences as “a terrible violation of a person’s privacy” with long-lasting effects.
Crown prosecutor Claire Hislop said while some leniency could be given for Aakash’s remorse and efforts toward rehabilitation, a custodial sentence was essential to protect the public.
It is reported that Aakash’s lawyer urged the court to consider community-based sentencing, highlighting his client’s guilty plea, lack of prior convictions, and attempts to seek treatment for alcohol addiction.
As per NZ Herald, the judge found imprisonment unavoidable, citing Aakash’s limited family support, unstable living situation, and the need for structured rehabilitation. He also ordered that sentencing reports be provided to the Parole Board to ensure Aakash receives alcohol treatment during his sentence and upon release.
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