Unknown Man Jailed For Sex Attack On Unidentified Victim

A man whose real identity is still unknown has been jailed for six years for the sexual assault of a female victim who has never been traced.

On Sunday, 1 March at 02:00 two members of the public noticed a man struggling with a woman on the ground outside a block of communal garages at Caledonian Road, N7 near Sturmer Way.

The man was partially undressed and was attempting to remove the woman's clothing. The witnesses shouted at the man who made off, but they gave chase and he was caught by them a short distance away.

One of the witnesses checked on the welfare of the woman, who was uninjured, and he then called the police.

However, the victim left the scene prior to police arrival and, despite numerous public appeals to trace her, she has never been found.

The attacker was arrested, but when he was asked his details he stated he was a French national and gave a name.

However, detectives carried out fingerprint checks with the French authorities who confirmed that the name he was using was false, but they were unable to identify who he really was.

As detectives were unable to identify him and he refused to provide his correct details he was tried under the assumed name.

Detective Constable Kip Malek, Sexual Offences Exploitation and Child Abuse Command, said: "This is a highly unusual case where we have been unable to trace the victim and the man who has been convicted is under an assumed name. Despite this we have been able to get a conviction and that is due to the brave members of the public who witnessed the attack and took it upon themselves to pursue this man and contact us.

"This incident should demonstrate to people that we take all offences of sexual assault very seriously and when they do occur, we do everything we can to bring the offenders to justice."

The Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Neil Smithson said: "A dangerous individual has been convicted. I am still keen to ascertain his identity - anyone who recognises him should call us on 020 8733 6572 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

"Equally, if you were the victim of this offence please contact us - we have specially trained officers who can support you.

"I would urge anyone who has been the victim of sexual violence to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they will be listened to, the case will be thoroughly investigated and we will provide bespoke victim care depending on the individual's needs."

(MH)