Sunny Islam, convicted of a series of violent sexual assaults in London in 2010, has been recommended for transfer to an open prison following a recent parole board hearing. Islam, 38, was sentenced to an indefinite prison term after being found guilty of multiple charges, including seven counts of rape, one count of sexual assault, and one count of kidnapping.

The offenses took place during a three-month period in 2010, primarily in the Barking area of east London. Islam abducted several victims at knifepoint, including a 15-year-old girl, whom he kidnapped and raped in September of that year. Police secured his arrest by tracing the number plate of his girlfriend’s car. Subsequent forensic evidence linked Islam to three additional assaults near his residence. One notably involved a 20-year-old sex worker who was subjected to what prosecutors described as his “trademark double rape.”

During the parole board’s private hearing—held confidentially due to Islam’s reported heightened anxiety—the panel determined that while it remains unsafe to release him into the community, a move to an open prison environment is appropriate. Such a transfer would allow Islam greater access to work and rehabilitative activities outside the prison walls under supervised conditions. The final decision now rests with the Secretary of State.

The parole board’s assessment highlighted several factors contributing to Islam’s risk of reoffending. These included his persistent preoccupation with sex, preference for encounters involving violence or control, entitlement to sexual activity, and a limited understanding of the harm his actions inflicted on victims. Despite these concerns, the board acknowledged that Islam has shown “progress” during his incarceration, citing his demonstrated application of relevant skills and learning programs.

It was reported that one of Islam’s victims requested a public parole hearing, but this application was denied. His legal counsel contended the private setting was necessary due to Islam’s significant anxiety, which had reportedly intensified.

Islam’s background includes being raised in a strict Muslim family. The parole board’s recommendation reflects ongoing challenges in balancing public safety with rehabilitation efforts for offenders deemed high risk. The Secretary of State’s forthcoming decision will determine whether Islam’s transfer to an open prison proceeds.