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Friday, 17 March 2023

An 18 year old man has been found guilty of rape after targeting a woman in a churchyard in Kingston.

Mohammad Idriss had already pleaded guilty to possession of a Class B drug, theft and fraud offences in relation to the same incident.

He was loitering around Kingston Town Centre last July when he approached the woman just after midnight.

He went on to rape her in All Saints churchyard just off the Ancient Market Place. 

Idriss then stole two of her bank cards and used them to purchase food and drink at various stores in Kingston Town Centre.

The rape was reported to the police that day and detectives immediately launched an investigation.

Detectives carried out extensive CCTV enquiries that showed the suspect approaching the victim. 

They also submitted urgent forensic tests that identified the suspect as Mohammad Idriss.

Idriss was arrested at his home address in Hackney on 26 July 2022. He made no comment during his police interviews and was charged and remanded shortly after.

Throughout the investigation and trial, an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser  provided specialist support to the victim. 

An ISVA is an impartial adviser who works with people who have experienced rape and/or sexual assault.

Prior to the trial, specialist measures were put in place so the victim could provide evidence in court with only the judge and barristers present, and without having to see Idriss.

Detective Constable Troy Sampson leading the investigation said: “Mohammad Idriss is an extremely dangerous individual who targeted an innocent woman. His actions that night have caused serious harm and will have a lasting impact.

“My job is to investigate serious sexual offences and bring those responsible to justice, I am pleased with the result in court and take comfort in knowing he is in prison and cannot harm anyone else.

“Reporting a rape can seem scary or daunting but I want to reassure anyone who this has happened to that we will fully support you and conduct a full and thorough investigation.”

Mohammad Idriss will be sentenced on Friday, the 19th of May at Kingston Crown Court.