Man Rapes 80-Year-old Pensioner In Her Own Home

A man who raped a pensioner in her own home has been convicted of the attack.

Robert Lashley, 32 (15.02.82) of Blythe Road, W14 was found guilty of rape at Isleworth Crown Court on Monday, 19 January, following a trial.

The court heard that Lashley had targeted his 80-year-old victim last year in Shepherd's Bush as she left her home to go to a newsagents at 07:30hsr on 16 August 2014.

CCTV showed Lashley loitering outside the victim's block of flats where she lives on her own. As she came back he followed into the communal entrance and then forced his way into her flat. He then raped her.

The victim reported the assault to police.

Lashley was arrested on 17 August 2014 as a result of images obtained from CCTV, from which he was identified by police officers. He was charged later the same day

The victim was able to give evidence against him in court which led to a successful conviction.

The court also heard that Lashley had received an eight-year sentence in 2004 for a similar rape on a 59-year-old woman.

He was remanded in custody and will be sentenced on Friday, 6 March.

Officers believe that Lashley may have targeted other women and are appealing for other possible victims to come forward.

Detective Constable Victoria Kilburn said: "Robert Lashley is a sexual predator who, on 16 August 2014, targeted one of the most vulnerable members of our community and subjected her to an 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.

"I also hope that this sentence will encourage more victims of sexual offending to approach police, in the knowledge you will be believed no matter what age you are, and that the police will seek prosecutions for sexual offences.

"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. She has found this experience extremely traumatic and I hope she can recover from this to enjoy her retirement in peace.

"Police are taking the step of releasing Lashley's image today. If you think you have been a victim of Robert Lashley, I would ask you to come forward and speak to police."

Anyone with information is asked to call the police non-emergency line on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.