‘Sexual predator’ who raped 80-year-old woman in her own home is jailed for life

 
'Sexual predator': Robert Lashley (Picture: Metropolitan Police)
Alexandra Rucki5 May 2015
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A "sexual predator" who raped an 80-year-old woman in her own home has been jailed for life.

Robert Lashley, of Blythe Road, Kensington, loitered outside the block of flats where the pensioner lived in Shepherd's Bush and waited until she returned from the shops.

Isleworth Crown Court heard how the 33-year-old followed the woman into the communal entrance of the building and forced his way into her flat on August 16 last year, before raping her.

Lashley was arrested the following day after detectives recognised his face from CCTV footage, Scotland Yard said.

Police today praised the victim for bravely giving evidence against her attacker in court.

The court heard how Lashley was previously jailed for eight years in 2004 for raping a 59-year-old woman.

Investigators believe he may have targeted other women and today appealed for potential victims to come forward.

Detective Constable Lucy Mawdsley said: “Robert Lashley is a sexual predator who on August 16 targeted one of the most vulnerable members of our community and subjected her to a horrific sexual assault.

“This was all the more distressing as the offence occurred in her home, where she should have felt safe. I hope that the sentence today reflects how seriously the police and courts view this type of vile offending."

She added: "I would like to pay tribute to the victim of this offence. She is a spirited lady who showed great courage and determination, not only during the offence, but also in attending court and giving evidence against Lashley.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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