26/05/2010

Handicapped Girl's Rapist Jailed

A rapist has been sentenced at Inner London Crown Court following his earlier conviction.

Rafal Piotr Smucz, 29, of no fixed address was jailed indefinitely and ordered to serve a minimum of six years.

On Tuesday 25 August 2009 the 17-year-old victim - who suffers from severe learning difficulties - went to MintStreetPark at around 7pm and while she was there was approached by Smucz who forced her to the ground and raped her.

Several members of the public later came forward and assisted police in their investigation, including a 13-year-old boy who was the one who raised the alarm.

Smucz was arrested whilst sleeping rough in Waterloo on 1 September 2009 and identified as being wanted for the rape.

He was found guilty at the Inner London Crown Court on Wednesday 10 March 2010 following an eight-day trial.

Detective Constable Richard Hart of Southwark Sapphire Unit in charge of the investigation said: "This sentence reflects how dangerous Smucz is, he attacked a vulnerable young woman in broad daylight and denied his actions throughout trial. I am relieved that he has been removed from the streets."

Detective Chief Inspector David Ainscough also said: "This was a disturbing stranger attack.

"It is a credit to the witnesses who raised the alarm and assisted police throughout the investigation that this man was caught and the dedication of officers who worked tirelessly to ensure Smucz would be convicted despite denying this offence."

(BMcC/GK)

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