Double-Rapist 'Lifer' Could Be Free In 2022

A “sexual Predator” repeat rapist - who targeted an 80 year-old pensioner - has been given a life sentence, but may be free in just seven-and-a-half years.

Robert Lashley, 32, of Blythe Road, West Kensington waited for the woman, who lives alone, to return from a local newsagents early one morning and followed her to her flat, where he raped her.

An Isleworth Crown Court jury found him guilty of the offence after hearing Lashley was caught on CCTV loitering outside the woman's Shepherd's Bush block of flats at 7.30am on August 16, last year.

Earlier this month was sentenced to life imprisonment with a recommendation he serves at least seven-and-a-half years in prison, minus time served on remand.

He was quickly identified and arrested the next day and the victim was able to give evidence against him in court which led to a successful conviction.



The court also heard that Lashley had received an eight-year sentence in 2004 for a similar rape on a 59-year-old woman.



Officers believe Lashley may have targeted other women and are appealing for other possible victims to come forward.



Detective Constable Victoria Kilburn said: "Robert Lashley is a sexual predator who, on 16 August 2014, targeted one of the most vulnerable members of our community and subjected her to an horrific sexual assault.

“This was all the more distressing as the offence occurred in her home, where she should have felt safe. 



"I also hope that this sentence will encourage more victims of sexual offending to approach police, in the knowledge you will be believed no matter what age you are, and that the police will seek prosecutions for sexual offences.



"I would like to pay tribute to the victim of this offence. She is a spirited lady who showed great courage and determination, not only during the offence, but also in attending court and giving evidence against Lashley.

“She has found this experience extremely traumatic and I hope she can recover from this to enjoy her retirement in peace.



"Police are taking the step of releasing Lashley's image today. If you think you have been a victim of Robert Lashley, I would ask you to come forward and speak to police." 



Anyone with information is asked to call the police non-emergency line on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.