Judge says rapist Remzi Bektasovski ‘has no idea of the damage he caused’

A 22-year-old martial arts instructor found guilty of a sexual assault ‘has no real idea of the damage he caused’, according to the judge who presided over his case.

Remzi Bektasovski “doesn’t get it”. After facing a NSW District Court trial for sexually assaulting three different young women — and being found guilty of one — it appears the 22-year-old still can’t comprehend that what he did was wrong.

“He has cognitive distortions about sex and consent,” Judge Andrew Haesler said at Bektasovski’s sentence hearing last month.

Remzi Bektasovski. Picture: Facebook

Bektasovski leaves Wollongong Court.

The martial arts instructor’s background was relatively unique compared to the histories of defendants who come before the district court.

He had a normal, supportive upbringing in a large, loving family and was described by one referee as a young man with considerable promise.

But, Judge Haesler pointed out, that was inconsistent with the crime he had committed.

Bektasovski subjected his victim to a sustained and degrading physical assault.

He used coercive and overbearing behaviour, persistence and force to rape Holly Leppard, then 17.

“He ignored her saying no, he showed no concern for her at all,” Judge Haesler said.

“He ignored her as a person.”

Despite the guilty verdict, Bektasovski, who was 18 at the time of offending, showed no remorse.

“It appears he has no real idea of the damage he caused,” Judge Haesler said.

“It appears to be cognitive distortion still exists. If this is not addressed, he is at risk of reoffending again.”

A prison psychologist said if Bektasovski was innocent as he asserted than there was nothing wrong with him.

But, looking at the jury verdict, there were real problems with his view and attitude towards women, the court heard.