Rapist: Colin Richmond
(Picture: Met Police )A man who raped a woman at knifepoint in Hackney after subjecting her to violent attacks has been jailed.
Colin Richmond, 48, of Camden, was sentenced to 19-and-a-half years’ imprisonment at Wood Green Crown Court on Friday.
He was found guilty of rape at the same court in August. A trial heard how in March 2020, Richmond beat the victim around the body, bruising her ribs.
In early April, while the victim was recovering from the previous injuries inflicted on her, Richmond hit her in the face and beat her, causing black eyes, a split lip and cuts and bruises.
On April 23, the victim, who was known to Richmond, received a call from him asking her for help.
She agreed to meet him but Richmond became angry and started to become aggressive towards her, grabbing her by the throat.
He then grabbed a large knife and raped her. The victim managed to escape from the house and reported the incident to police.
In an emotional victim impact statement read to the court, the victim told how the “traumatic and distressing” ordeal had left her withdrawn and anxious.
“Before meeting Richmond I was confident, outgoing and a sociable person however I am now very withdrawn, quiet, private and find it a struggle to socialise, or be around familiar or unfamiliar people,” she said.
“I also have trust issues and become very anxious and find it overwhelming at times being in the company of others both male and female.
“I am slowly trying to rebuild my life step by step, day by day and know that I have a long and slow journey ahead but believe that with the continuous assistance, support, patience and medication provided I will again regain my love and appreciation and all that I have lost emotionally and physically due to this traumatic and no fault of my own situation.”
The 48-year-old rapist, who had admitted two counts of actual bodily harm, was placed on the sex offenders’ register for life.
Detective Constable Rob Johnston, who investigated said: “Colin Richmond committed horrifying acts of violence and is clearly a threat to women.
“He has now faced justice for his crimes, which sadly leave a lasting impact on the victim. We have continued to provide help and support to the victim throughout this process.”
He added that the force’s priority was to tackle “all forms of violence, especially violence against women”, urging any victims to come forward to speak to specially-trained officers.
