Iraqi Man Sentenced to 21-23 Years in Prison for Rape in Lincoln
A Lincoln man from Iraq was sentenced to 21-23 years in prison for the rape of a woman in Lincoln. Mohammed Al Saad, who had denied the charges from the beginning, claimed that the woman was his girlfriend and that the encounter was consensual. However, prosecutors presented DNA evidence that linked Al Saad to the sexual assault.
The incident occurred on April 19th, 2021, when the 39-year-old woman reported that Al Saad had helped her move and then assaulted her in the basement of her home. She managed to escape and seek help at a nearby gas station, where she called 911. The police arrested Al Saad months later after DNA evidence confirmed his involvement.
During the sentencing, Deputy Lancaster County Attorney Julie Mruz argued that Al Saad was a violent man and a danger to the community. She commended the woman’s bravery in coming forward and emphasized that it hadn’t been an easy road for her, especially within her community.
Defense attorney William Harris maintained that Al Saad pleaded no contest to the charges but maintained his innocence. He claimed that Al Saad was still adjusting to the cultural dynamics between men and women in the United States.
Lancaster County District Judge Ryan Post disagreed with Al Saad’s claims, stating that his record, including a domestic assault while out on bond, demonstrated a history of violence against women. He criticized Al Saad for refusing to take responsibility for his actions and attempting to shift blame.
Acknowledging the victim’s courage, Judge Post sentenced Al Saad to the maximum penalty of 21-23 years in prison. He characterized Al Saad as a liar and a threat to the community.
Al Saad’s wife, Debra Cozine, also faced legal consequences for attempting to tamper with evidence in a related case. She received probation and 60 days in jail.
Al Saad plans to appeal the sentence.
