Dating App Horror: Man Pleads Guilty to Rape After Quick Police Hunt
Ryan Mulhern, 41, from Hornsey Lane, N6, pleaded guilty to rape and attempted rape at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, 21 April. The shocking crimes happened after a brief meeting arranged via a dating app.
Swift Justice Thanks to Dedicated Police Work
Detective Sergeant Sam Lockstone, who led the investigation, praised his team’s tireless efforts: “I am incredibly proud of my team for supporting the victim throughout this investigation with such professionalism.”
He added, “Arresting, charging and remanding Mulhern, and then him pleading guilty, within one month of the incident shows the dedication and commitment our teams have in pursuing justice for these horrific offences.”
How the Case Unfolded
- On Tuesday, 21 March, at 9:50pm, police were called to Hornsey Lane after a member of the public found a 25-year-old woman in tears, claiming she had just been raped.
- The victim explained she had met Mulhern via a dating app and went to his house to meet up.
- Mulhern raped her despite her repeated pleas to stop.
- The victim escaped and was found by a passerby who called 999 immediately.
Manhunt Ends in Arrest
Police responded quickly, appointing a specialist sexual offences investigator to support the victim. She was taken to a Haven for expert care the following day.
A resource-heavy manhunt ensued, with officers searching multiple addresses before finally arresting Mulhern in Islington on Wednesday, 22 March.
The investigation team gathered evidence to ensure Mulhern was charged and kept behind bars, protecting the public from a dangerous offender.
