Rapist Caught by DNA on Teddy Bear Jailed for Eight Years
A vile rapist has been locked up for eight years after cops traced his DNA from a teddy bear used by his victim to fend him off during the attack.
Soft Toy Key to Catching Predator
The victim, a woman in her 50s, bravely used the stuffed toy to push Bardhyl Mustafaj, 64, away when he tried to assault her. That teddy bear became crucial evidence in nailing the culprit.
Mustafaj, who was known to the woman, had visited her Hampstead Heath home in May 2019 to fix a lightbulb before launching the sick attack. He was convicted on four counts of rape at Wood Green Crown Court on 1 December and jailed on 19 January.
Detective Praises Victim’s Courage and Police Work
Detective Constable Sam Orchard, lead investigator, said: “I would firstly like to commend the victim for her bravery in reporting this crime so quickly; she went through the most horrendous ordeal.
“Their relentless attention to detail meant that no stone was left unturned. A key piece of evidence was the presence of Mustafaj’s DNA on the teddy bear which the victim used to push him off when he tried to kiss her.
“Mustafaj is now behind bars for a considerable time and will not be able to prey on other vulnerable people. We encourage any victims of sexual assault to come forward. You will be listened to and we will work hard to support you while we investigate what has happened.”
Justice Served for Victim
Mustafaj, from Coupland Place, Greenwich, denied the charges but was found guilty by a jury. He was first arrested on 6 May 2019 and charged more than three years later on 29 June 2022.
The Met remains committed to tackling violence against women and girls. Read their action plan here.
