Anthony Adewale Sobogun

Anthony Adewale Sobogun, aged 61 from Thistlewood Crescent in Croydon, was jailed for 28 years at Inner London Crown Court on 15 April 2026 following a conviction for 17 non-recent sexual abuse offences against two children. The offences, which occurred during the 1990s and early 2000s, involved multiple incidents of sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13, as well as the rape of a child. The victims were known to Sobogun, highlighting the betrayal of trust in a familial or close relationship.

The investigation was led by the Metropolitan Police Service, who adopted a victim-led approach to build trust with the survivors and gather evidence. Sobogun was arrested in the early hours of 2 July 2025 and subsequently charged. Key evidence included medical records from an abortion clinic that Sobogun had accompanied one victim to after she became pregnant with his child, as well as counselling notes detailing the cycle of abuse she endured. These records were crucial in corroborating the survivors' accounts during the trial.

Detective Constable Charlotte Lockyer, who led the investigation, praised the bravery of the victims: "The bravery of the victims in coming forward is what brought Sobogun to justice. It’s as a result of their courage in working with officers that this dangerous man has been jailed." The case utilised video recorded interviews (VRIs) in specially designed suites to support the victims sensitively, enhancing the quality of evidence through advanced digital technology and a trauma-informed environment.

The victims themselves issued a powerful statement emphasising the hidden nature of such abuse: "What has come to light is deeply distressing, but sadly, it is not an isolated situation. Abuse like this exists in many communities, often hidden by family, fear, silence, or stigma." They urged others to come forward, noting that justice can be secured regardless of when the abuse occurred. The Metropolitan Police's commitment to improving victim experiences was evident throughout, ensuring the survivors' voices were heard in court.

This conviction underscores the ongoing efforts by the Metropolitan Police to pursue historical sexual abuse cases, preventing further harm and delivering justice for survivors. The thorough investigation not only secured Sobogun's imprisonment but also highlighted the importance of listening to victims and taking concerns seriously beyond appearances.