A cyclist who sexually assaulted five women in just three weeks across south-east London has been jailed for 19 months and banned from riding a bicycle.
Eddwin Cortes-Pinerez, 40, used his bike to silently approach lone women from behind before groping them and speeding off, a pattern of offending described by prosecutors as calculated and deeply distressing. The assaults took place between July 3 and July 24, 2023, in Greenwich, Blackheath, Kidbrooke, Charlton, and Surrey Quays.
At Woolwich Crown Court on Thursday (April 17), Recorder Martin Goudie KC condemned Cortes-Pinerez’s behaviour, issuing a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order prohibiting him from cycling, in addition to the custodial sentence.
‘Calculated and Repeat Offending’
Prosecutor Mr O’Sullivan said the Colombian national’s method was consistent throughout each incident.
“In each case, he used a bicycle to approach lone women walking or commuting in public, approaching them at speed and soundlessly. Suddenly and without warning, he would grab their buttocks firmly, then cycle away before being identified.”
One victim suffered a panic attack following the assault. Another woman sustained injuries after falling while trying to take a photo of Cortes-Pinerez as he fled.
The court was told Cortes-Pinerez, who lives on Mitcham Lane in Streatham, initially dismissed the attacks as “pranks” but later pleaded guilty to five counts of sexual assault. He has no previous convictions in the UK and has been in the country since 2022, though details about his background remain unclear.
Judge: ‘A Risk to the Public’
Recorder Goudie made clear that Cortes-Pinerez’s use of a bicycle was a key element in his offending.
“Central to the offending is the defendant’s use of his bicycle to get close to the victims quickly, quietly and unseen, and then to be able to escape quickly. I’m satisfied based on the seriousness of the offences that the defendant poses a risk of sexual harm to the public.”
Although Cortes-Pinerez has already spent significant time in custody since his arrest on July 30, 2023, he is likely to be released soon due to time served on remand.
Community Reaction and Support
The sentencing follows growing concern in London over harassment of women in public spaces. Women’s rights groups have welcomed the decision, highlighting the importance of taking all forms of sexual assault seriously, even those dismissed by perpetrators as jokes or pranks.
Anyone who has experienced harassment or sexual assault is encouraged to contact police or seek support from organisations like Victim Support or Rape Crisis England & Wales.
