POLICE have released an image of a wanted man on the run who knifed a former housemate in a Coventry street.
As we reported on Monday, Behrooz Rashidi (38) previously of Jenner Street, Coventry, had pleaded not guilty to wounding Karwan Ahmed with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and possessing an offensive weapon.
And after hearing that it was the second time he had failed to turn up to stand trial at Warwick Crown Court, Judge Anthony Potter ordered it to go ahead in his absence.
Rashidi, who was convicted of both charges, had contacted his solicitor to say he would be returning within a few days – so the judge adjourned sentencing to give him the chance to do so.
But when he still failed to attend, Judge Potter sentenced him in his absence to eight years in jail last Tuesday (January 22).
He was also handed a 10-year restraining order, banning him for contacting the victim.
He was thought to have fled to Baghdad but Coventry Police believe he could still be in the UK and have issued an appeal.
A Coventry Police spokesperson said: “We’re appealing for information on the whereabouts of 38-year-old Behrooz Rashidi who is wanted by West Midlands Police.
“Rashidi, formerly of Jenner Street, Coventry, was bailed by the courts last year, and hasn’t been seen since.
“He has known links to Coventry and Iran, but enquires suggest he’s still in the UK.
“If you see Rashidi please call 999 immediately. If you have any other information about him or his possible whereabouts, please get in touch via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am – midnight or call 101 anytime.
“Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. They never ask for your name or details and they never trace your call.”
