Man Jailed for Savage Sexual Attack in Merton Park
A brutal sex attacker who tried to rape a woman in a Merton park has been locked up for 22 years. Khaled Argoub, 21, from Garratt Terrace, SW17, was convicted of multiple serious sex offences at Kingston Crown Court on 17 September.
22 Years for Attempted Rape and More
Argoub was handed an extended sentence of 22 years for one count of attempted rape, with 14 years to be served behind bars. He’ll be eligible for parole after serving two-thirds of that time.
He also got concurrent sentences for other charges:
- Attempted rape (second count) – 10 years
- Attempting to choke with intent – 9 years
- Assault by penetration – 9 years
- Three counts of sexual assault – 10 years
Horrific Attack Followed Victim From Night Tube
The terrifying ordeal began when the victim, a woman in her twenties, left Colliers Wood Tube at 3am on 11 August 2019 after a night out with friends. Argoub followed her and was caught on CCTV trailing and filming her as she exited the train, wearing a distinctive baseball cap found at the crime scene.
She walked along Colliers Wood High Street, spotting Argoub smirking and waiting for her in a residential street. Suddenly, he charged and dragged her into nearby Wandle Park. There, he grabbed her from behind, choking her and attempting to rape her before sexually assaulting her.
The brave victim bit Argoub’s hand that was covering her mouth and managed to break free, running to nearby flats where police soon arrived. She suffered cuts, scratches, and a hoarse voice from strangulation.
Police Hunt and forensic breakthrough
Despite a helicopter and dog search, Argoub initially vanished. However, CCTV footage and forensic evidence sealed his fate. A nail clipping from the victim contained Argoub’s partial DNA.
Detective Constable Faye Castleman praised the victim’s courage and the police team’s thorough work, saying: “I am pleased that justice has been served and I hope that this sentence can bring some closure for the victim and her family. This case highlights the importance of forensic evidence and proactive policing.”
She added: “We take these cases very seriously and encourage anyone affected to come forward.”
