Rapist Sentenced After 15-Year Police Hunt
A dangerous convicted rapist has finally been locked up for attacks committed over 15 years ago. Kurt Forbes, a man with no fixed address, was found guilty of three rapes and one attempted rape after a fierce investigation by specialist detectives.
Historic Crimes Span Nearly a Decade
The shocking crimes took place in Hackney between 1998 and 2006 against a victim known to Forbes. Despite the passage of time, police never gave up tracking him down.
Victim’s Courage Leads to Conviction
“The victim in this case has shown extreme bravery, not only by coming forward to police but in providing extensive evidence at court which left the jury in no doubt as to Forbes’ guilt,” said Detective Constable Thomas Millard, who led the investigation.
“Despite the time passed since the offences, our team worked tirelessly to gather the evidence which proved Forbes had committed these horrific crimes. We hope this sends a message to victims that no matter how long ago abuse happened, we take reports seriously and will fight for justice.”
Manhunt Ends in Ilford Arrest
The case broke open in July 2022 when the victim bravely reported the repeated attacks. Police promptly took a video statement and arranged specialist support, including an Independent Sexual Violence Advocate referral.
A warrant was issued for Forbes’ arrest, but he went on the run. After a nationwide manhunt, officers finally caught him in Ilford in January 2023.
Forbes now faces justice for the brutal crimes he committed more than a decade ago.
