Houseguest Jailed For Knifepoint Rape Of Resident

A sleepover guest sneaked into a female resident's room and raped her while holding a knife to her throat.

Turkish national Sevdalin Atanasov, 32, of Exeter Road, Enfield, was a friend of one of the victim's flatmates and had been invited to stay the night.

He threatened to kill the woman during her ordeal and tried to lie his way out of trouble until confronted with the police's forensic evidence.

At Wood Green Crown Court Atanasov pleaded guilty to one count of rape at the Enfield address and received thirteen years imprisonment.

The court heard at half past midnight in the early hours of October 22, last year the woman – aged in her 30's – woke to find Atanasov in her bedroom.

His hand was over her mouth and he was holding a knife to her throat.

Atanasov raped her, while threatening to kill her throughout the attack.

Eventually she managed to flee to a friend’s address, where police were called.

When questioned by police he initially denied the offence, but entered a guilty plea after being presented with forensic evidence of the assault.

Detective Constable Andrew Poore said: “The effects of Atanasov’s attack, in what should have been the safety of her bedroom, will undoubtedly remain with the victim forever. 

“He took advantage of knowing that she was asleep, alone and vulnerable in her bedroom.

“I hope that knowing he has been jailed brings her a measure of comfort and security and allows her to move forward with her life. 

“I commend the bravery, resolve, and support shown by the victim in this life-changing ordeal. 

“This successful result demonstrates the Met’s commitment to tackling serious sexual offences and to continually strive to protect vulnerable people.”