Man jailed for violent attack on sex worker

A man has been jailed for four years for a brutal attack on a woman in her own home.

Parvez Patel, 34, (02.02.1990), an estate agent, of Empress Avenue, Ilford, was swiftly arrested at the scene after neighbours heard the woman’s screams and called police.

The attack took place late on the evening of Monday, 29 January, when Patel booked a sex worker and arrived at her home in Westminster.

Shortly after, he launched a brutal assault, leaving the victim, in her 40s, with severe injuries including a broken nose, extensive bruising, swelling and cuts.

He was arrested, and charged on 31 January.

Following a three-week trial at Southwark Crown Court, Patel was found guilty of grievous bodily harm with intent and remanded in custody until his sentencing on Monday, 16 December.

Detective Constable Lloyd Leech, from the Met’s Central West Rape and Serious Sexual Offences unit, said:

“The victim suffered a horrific attack in her own home, where she was most vulnerable. Patel inflicted significant injuries and it is thanks to the quick actions of the public, who alerted police, we were able to intervene.

“Sex workers are among the most vulnerable in society, and we want to ensure they are heard and supported. We encourage anyone who has experienced any form of violence to come forward. You will be listened to, supported, and we will work tirelessly to bring offenders to justice.”

PC Preet Brar, the victim’s specialist support officer, added:

“I commend the victim for her bravery and courage in reporting this brutal attack and remaining engaged with the police investigation throughout. Her determination to give live evidence during the trial was crucial in securing the custodial sentence, which we welcome.”

+ Patel was charged with attempted rape, sexual assault by penetration, making threats to kill, false imprisonment, voyeurism and GBH with intent and remanded in custody awaiting trial. He was convicted of GBH with intent and acquitted of the other charges.