In a harrowing trial at the Old Bailey, Urfan Sharif, the father of Sara Sharif, acknowledged his failures as a parent, labeling himself the “worst parent on the planet.” His admission comes in the wake of shocking allegations surrounding the circumstances of his daughter’s tragic death. Sara endured a prolonged period of abuse before being found deceased at her home in Woking, Surrey, last year.
Sara’s death has been linked to two years of severe mistreatment, including instances of being hooded, burned, and beaten. A post-mortem examination revealed dozens of injuries, such as probable human bite marks, an iron burn, and scalding from hot water. These findings have raised serious questions about the environment in which Sara lived.
During his testimony, Mr. Sharif admitted that violence had become “normalized” within their household. However, he claimed that his brother Faisal Malik, who cohabited with the family, was oblivious to the abuse occurring under their roof.
In response to challenging questions from prosecutor Bill Emlyn Jones KC regarding the pervasive violence in the home, Mr. Sharif insisted that everything was separate from Malik’s awareness.
The prosecution scrutinized Mr. Sharif’s responses regarding specific injuries inflicted on Sara. When pressed about a severe burn on her buttocks and other marks, he denied responsibility and suggested that other children might have been involved instead.
The prosecution presented evidence suggesting that brutal implements were used against Sara. Items recovered included a bloodstained cricket bat and a rolling pin bearing her DNA. When confronted about these findings, Mr. Sharif maintained his denial of intent to cause any serious harm.
In a surprising turn during his testimony, Mr. Sharif admitted responsibility for Sara’s death but later distanced himself from any intent to kill her.
“She died because of me,” he stated during cross-examination, although he continued to deny any murderous intentions.
As the trial progresses, it remains to be seen how these revelations will impact the case against Mr. Sharif and his co-defendants—stepmother Beinash Batool and uncle Faisal Malik—who all face serious charges related to Sara’s tragic demise.
This case not only highlights grave issues surrounding child welfare but also raises broader questions about accountability within familial structures. As it continues to unfold, many are left wondering how such tragedies can be prevented in the future.
Trial of Father Accused in Daughter’s Death The tragic case surrounding the death of 10-year-old Sara Sharif continues to unfold in a London court, drawing attention to the harrowing circumstances leading up to her demise.
Father Accepts Responsibility in Sara Sharif Case In a harrowing courtroom session, Urfan Sharif, the father of 10-year-old Sara Sharif, acknowledged his role in her tragic death while denying any intention to kill her.