Crucial DNA evidence on victim's teddy bear helps cops catch 'horrendous' rapist

20 January 2024 , 13:43

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Mustafaj, from Greenwich, was jailed yesterday for four counts of rape (Image: Met Police)

A rapist has been handed eight years behind bars after his DNA was discovered on his victim's teddy bear.

Bardhyl Mustafaj, 64, was attacking his victim when they used the stuffed toy to push him away, which provided the crucial evidence needed to lock him up. Mustafaj, from Greenwich, was jailed yesterday for four counts of rape, having been convicted at Wood Green Crown Court late last year, MyLondon reports.

Detective Constable Sam Orchard 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."

"This allowed officers to promptly get to work, forensically analysing the crime scene, gathering a range of DNA evidence, interviewing potential witnesses and locating the suspect."

Bardhyl Mustafaj's victim used the toy to push him away (Met Police)

"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 women.

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"We would encourage any victims of sexual assault to come forward to the police. You will be listened to and we will work hard to support you while we investigate what has happened."

Will Twigger