Seyi Odeyemi

On 3 September 2023, at around 11pm in Camden, London, Seyi Odeyemi approached a woman who was attempting to book a taxi. He offered to drive her home for half the price of a taxi fare, and she agreed to get into his car. However, instead of taking her to her residence, Odeyemi drove to a hotel near Northfleet in Kent.

The woman became semi-conscious and unable to stand during the journey. Odeyemi carried and dragged her to a hotel room, where he raped her. The following morning, the distressed woman awoke confused beside a man she did not recognise. She disclosed the ordeal to a friend and subsequently reported the incident to the police.

Investigators identified Odeyemi as the offender and arrested him on 7 September 2023. It was established that he was subject to a sexual risk order at the time, which he breached by failing to obtain consent from anyone he engaged in sexual activity with and by not informing them of the order's existence. Odeyemi, residing at Adams Drive, Willesborough, Ashford, was charged with rape and breaching the sexual risk order.

He pleaded not guilty but was convicted on both counts on 14 August 2024 following a trial at Maidstone Crown Court. On 5 December 2024, the 23-year-old received an extended sentence of 10 years and six months' imprisonment, with an additional five years on licence upon release. He will also be subject to a sexual harm prevention order for 20 years and must sign the sex offenders' register indefinitely.

Detective Constable James Lake, the investigating officer, stated: 'This criminal was subject to a court order that restricted his actions after it had been identified he was a risk to women. He failed to comply with the conditions and instead saw an opportunity to take advantage of a vulnerable woman. Odeyemi is a sexual predator who put his victim through an appalling ordeal. He undoubtedly belongs in jail.' The victim demonstrated immense courage by reporting the rape and assisting throughout the trial, ensuring Odeyemi was brought to justice. This case was handled by Kent Police, as reported by Greatest Hits Radio Kent on 6 December 2024.