Yuliyan Dimov

Yuliyan Dimov, a 45-year-old masseur from Enfield, Middlesex, has been found guilty of a series of sexual offences against women who trusted him to provide home massage services. The case, investigated by the Metropolitan Police, came to light in November 2022 when one victim reported being sexually assaulted during a session at her home. This prompted police to contact other women who had booked appointments with Dimov, uncovering a pattern of abuse affecting at least ten victims.

Dimov, who operated as a mobile masseur, exploited the vulnerability of his clients by assaulting them in their own homes. Investigations revealed that he had taken over 30 photographs of different women without their knowledge during these sessions. One woman, who had initially reported an assault in 2021 but withdrawn her support for the investigation, came forward again upon learning she was not alone. Despite Dimov's denials and his claim that the images were for 'professional purposes', forensic examination of his mobile phone provided damning evidence.

• Dimov was convicted of six counts of voyeurism.
• Two counts of attempted voyeurism.
• Nine counts of sexual assault.
• Three additional counts of sexual assault against a total of ten victims.

The trial took place at Wood Green Crown Court, where Dimov was found guilty on Thursday, May 2, 2024. He was arrested on June 15, 2023, at Gatwick Airport as he attempted to board a one-way flight to Bulgaria, his country of heritage, just as the net closed in on him. Detective Constable Abigail Butler, the lead investigator from the Metropolitan Police, highlighted the predatory nature of Dimov's actions, stating: 'Dimov preyed on women who trusted him and were in a vulnerable state when he assaulted them. The great work carried out by officers to build this case is only overshadowed by the bravery of the women who came forward.' Butler also urged any additional potential victims to contact authorities, emphasising the police's commitment to protecting vulnerable women and girls in London.

Dimov will return to Wood Green Crown Court on Friday, June 28, 2024, for sentencing. The case underscores the importance of victim support in building strong prosecutions against sexual offenders, with the Metropolitan Police playing a key role in identifying and apprehending Dimov before he could escape justice. Source: MyLondon, reported by Rafi Mauro-Benady on May 6, 2024.