Photographer Jailed for Rape After Victim’s Brave Court Stand
Sritharan Sayanthan, 42, from Fitzrovia, was slammed with an 11-year prison sentence at Hendon Crown Court on Friday, 21 July. The former photographer was found guilty of two counts of rape and one count of attempted rape following a seven-day trial.
Victim’s Courage Highlights Case
Detective Constable Sophie Baker from Central North Command hailed the victim’s bravery, saying, “She was extremely nervous but, with an interpreter’s help, gave detailed evidence in court. For victims, describing such incidents can be daunting, but she did amazingly. I’m proud of her courage and thankful she came forward.”
DC Baker urged others to speak up: “We believe there could be more victims. No piece of information is too small. You will be listened to and supported.”
How It Unfolded
- The victim, a woman in her 30s and Chinese national, first met Sayanthan at his photography studio on Brompton Road in May 2022.
- She returned on 8 July 2022, believing a drink was part of professional networking.
- At a public house on Warren Street, Sayanthan encouraged her to drink heavily, leaving her quickly intoxicated.
- He then led her to his studio where she blacked out.
- Partially conscious, she realised Sayanthan was sexually assaulting her but couldn’t react.
- The next thing she knew, he was dressing her and walking her to the tube station.
Police Investigation and Call for Witnesses
The victim reported the crime on 31 July 2022, initially unsure how rape cases were handled in the UK.
Police used Transport for London CCTV to track her movements, showing her unsteady arrival and departure from Warren Street station, helped by Sayanthan.
He was arrested in a carefully planned raid in September 2022 after being identified through a recorded victim interview and statements from studio staff.
DC Baker added: “If you have information about Sayanthan, call police on 101 referencing 1852/31JUL22. Victims of rape or sexual assault – please come forward. We will support you and take you seriously.”
Past Allegations and Police Resolve
Two previous sexual assault allegations against Sayanthan from 2012 and 2015 resurfaced but were closed due to lack of evidence at the time. Despite lost CCTV and forensic evidence then, these cases helped build bad character evidence against him.
Detectives stressed that delays in reporting sexual offences are challenging but assured victims: “We have specially trained officers ready to follow all leads and seek justice when evidence allows.”
