An ‘evil’ sex predator who raped two 15-year-old schoolgirls has been jailed for 11 years.
David Berbers, 21, attacked the first teenager several times in London and the second 50 miles away in a park in Hove, East Sussex after contacting her on Instagram.
Detectives believe there may be more victims of Berbers, of Richmond-upon-Thames, and urged anyone with information to come forward.
The initial victim, now 16, contacted Metropolitan Police officers in May 2019 to report Berbers had raped and sexually assaulted her on many occasions between December 2017 and March 2018.
Intelligence records were scanned and uncovered another offence where Berbers was suspected of attacked a girl in Hove.
He had arranged to meet her after communicating on social media.
After suggesting they walk through St Ann’s Well Gardens, he raped her before fleeing the scene, leaving her to seek help from members of the public nearby.
She was supported by medical professionals and specialist police officers, while an urgent investigation was launched.
Berbers, of Byatt Walk, Hampton was identified through his Instagram account and the phone number he used to contact the victim, as well as a detailed description she provided.
Met and colleagues in Sussex Police put together a compelling case against him.
At Kingston Crown Court, a jury convicted Berbers of three counts of rape and he admitted possession of extreme pornography.
When released, he must serve a further three years on licence with the threat that he will be returned to jailed. Berbers also received a 10-year sexual harm prevention order.
Detective Constable Hannah Saunders, of the Met’s public protection unit in south west London, said: “These young women have both been through a terrible ordeal.
“I would like to commend them for their courage and resilience.
“It is because of their testimony that this evil man is now behind bars and I hope this will bring them some closure.
“Unfortunately we cannot be sure there are not more victims who are yet to come forward.
“I would encourage anyone with information to get in touch so we can give you the support you need and investigate any further crimes.
“We take all allegations of this nature very seriously and you will be listened to and supported.”
Kent Police Detective Sergeant Kerri Bartup said: “David Berbers is a predatory offender who has proven time and again to be a danger to women and girls.
“His young victim has shown incredible courage and resilience to first report the offence, and then to support the investigation through to its conclusion.
“I would also like to commend the quick-thinking members of the public who brought her to a place of safety on the day of the incident.”
