Sex Offender Jailed for Sexual Assault in Gravesend
A dangerous sex offender has been locked up for four and a half years after attacking a woman in Gravesend town centre. Wisdom Ihediwa, 21, of Raphael Road, was also slapped with a five-year licence and a 10-year restraining order.
Chased Victim Through Streets Before Attack
On June 10, Ihediwa followed a woman through several streets as she walked home. Near her house, he sexually assaulted her twice. He then grabbed her, dragged her to a secluded spot, covered her mouth, and tried to force her to the ground.
The victim screamed for help, and two brave members of the public intervened, causing Ihediwa to flee.
Arrested With Knife Just Days Later
Two days after the assault, police spotted a man matching Ihediwa’s description wandering the area with a knife. He was quickly arrested.
Earlier that year, on February 8, Ihediwa had attacked two women in a recruitment office and was caught with a large pair of scissors.
Guilty Verdict and Tough Sentence
Ihediwa denied charges of sexual assault and possession of a bladed article but was found guilty at Woolwich Crown Court on December 19, 2019. The judge labelled him a dangerous offender.
He was placed on the sex offenders’ register for 10 years and banned from contacting his victim.
“Ihediwa is a dangerous predator and posed a significant risk to the public, especially females,” said Detective Sergeant Neil Martin of the North Kent Vulnerability Investigation Team.
“He subjected the victim to a terrifying ordeal and only stopped when confronted by members of the public who showed tremendous courage. CCTV helped us track him and bring him to justice. I’m pleased he’s now off the streets of Gravesend.”
