A man who raped a woman as she was walking home after a night out with friends in Leytonstone has been jailed for nine years

On January 26 of this year, Leon Rochester followed the victim along Leytonstone High Road before approaching her and offering to buy her a drink.

The 33-year-old then walked with the victim to a secluded location off Kirkdale Road where he raped her, ignoring repeated pleas for him to stop.

The woman eventually managed to break free and run away.

Police were called by a member of the public who came across the woman in a distressed state.

Detectives found CCTV which placed Rochester at the location. They also spoke to a witness who heard the woman ask him to stop.

Rochester was arrested at his home address five days after the attack.

Detective Inspector Jeremy McDermott, of the North East Command Unit, said: “I’d like to commend the victim for coming forward and telling us about her terrifying ordeal. Thanks to her bravery, both then and during the course of the investigation and trial, a dangerous offender has been taken off the streets.

“Although this sentence cannot make up for what she has gone through, I hope that the verdict and sentencing brings her some level of closure.

“I would also encourage all victims of both sexual assault and rape to come forward and contact police. We know that it is an incredibly difficult thing to do but we can provide you with appropriate help and support while carrying out an investigation to find those responsible.”

Rochester, of Woodhouse Road, Leytonstone, was found guilty of rape on Thursday, October 1 following a trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court.

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