British Heilab Assefa, the Croydon Rapist, characterised by police as “a dangerous sexual predator” has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for sexually assaulting a woman outside his residence in Croydon and recording the crime.
On November 18, 2023, at approximately midnight, a young woman was sexually abused and attacked on London Road in Croydon.
Heilab Assefa, residing on London Road, encountered the woman earlier that evening; yet, just hours later, he perpetrated a savage assault, which he recorded.
The 29-year-old individual, Heilab Assefa, was apprehended at the location.
Specialist officers commenced the construction of a robust case against Heilab Assefa, leading to charges being filed against him the subsequent day.
At his trial he was faced with overwhelming evidence.
He pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm, two counts of sexual assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault on June 3.
He was sentenced at Croydon Crown Court on Tuesday, October 1.
Heilab Assefa received 14 years and four months in prison, along with an additional eight years on license, for grievous bodily harm and several sexual assault charges.
Detective Sergeant Tim Walter, who led this case said: “Heilab Assefa is a dangerous sexual predator who targeted the victim-survivor whilst she was outside his address.
“This sentence sends a clear message to would-be offenders – the police will actively pursue and prosecute offenders using the full extent of the law.
“I would also like to commend the incredible work of DC Hannah Bates and PC Rose Mason.
“Without their outstanding detective ability and impressive skillsets, the evidence required to convict Heilab Assefa would not have been secured.
“Violence against women and girls has a profound and long-lasting impact on those affected. Such violence affects local communities and impacts how safe people feel where they live, and how confident they are in their local police.
“Our job is to safeguard victims and secure justice for them. We will not stop in our mission to tackle violence against women and girls.”
For more information about reporting sexual assault, visit the Met’s website. In an emergency, always call 999.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.