Detectives have secured an eight-year prison sentence for a rapist after their investigation and DNA linked him to the 2017 offence committed in Hammersmith.
The detectives worked diligently and sensitively to secure Flores’ conviction and during the investigation they also discovered vulnerable pictures of the victim survivor, which provided additional evidence to bring him to justice.
Alejandros Quiroz Flores, 40 (12.08.83) of Marloes Road, Kensington was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment on Wednesday, 29 November for rape. He has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
The victim survivor and three witnesses attended the trial at Isleworth Crown Court where the jury returned a guilty verdict on Thursday, 13 July.
The court heard that on 13 August 2017 the victim survivor, Flores and other colleagues went for drinks in Kensington. Later, Flores took the woman back to his previous home in Hammersmith where he raped her. She awoke during the attack and told him to stop, but he continued with his attack.
She woke the following morning, having flashbacks of the attack. She told friends about the attack who advised her to contact Flores, who told her that that nothing had taken place.
She attended a Haven clinic, which are specialist centres based in London for people who have been raped or sexually assaulted. Forensic samples were taken and she gave permission for her details to be disclosed to the police if DNA was identified.
Flores’ DNA was identified from the forensic evidence.
The victim survivor has since said: “This conviction is a significant step towards justice and closure for me. It validates the pain and trauma I have endured and it means that my voice has been heard.
“The justice system worked to hold the perpetrator accountable for his actions and although it cannot erase what happened, it does provide some sense of vindication and relief.
“This conviction also serves as a message that sexual assault is a crime that will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held responsible.”
She also appealed to other victim survivors to come forward to police: “To other victim survivors, I want to convey a message of encouragement and support. I understand the fear, shame, and stigma that can surround such experiences, but I also want you to know that you are not alone and your voice matters.
“Coming forward to report sexual assault is an incredibly brave and difficult step. It’s a step towards healing, towards holding perpetrators accountable, and towards preventing further harm to others. Know that there is support available, you do not have to go through this journey alone. Your courage can make a difference, not only in your own life, but in the lives of others who may be suffering in silence.
“Remember, you are stronger than you think, and your story deserves to be heard and believed. You have the right to seek justice and heal.”
Detective Sergeant Imran Khan, who led the investigation, said: “Flores took total advantage of the victim survivor who had once been his friend and colleague. I want to commend her and the witnesses for their help in convicting this man.
“We know this investigation took many years to come to a successful conclusion, I would like to thank her for her continued support and perseverance.
“Some sexual predators believe they can get away with their crimes, but this case shows they cannot, and they will be brought to justice. I would urge anyone in this position to contact police or The Havens – you will be listened to and supported by specially trained officers.”
As part of A New Met for London plan, the Met is doing more to build trust and support our London’s communities with issues that impact them the most. The Met is putting more people and focus into the team’s protecting women and children from violence and going after predatory men who commit those crimes. To read more about our plans to tackle violence against women and girls read A New Met for London.
+ If you have been a victim of sexual assault or rape or you have information about an offender, contact police on 101 or 999 in an emergency – there are specially trained officers who will listen and investigate where needed.
Further information, including details of agencies and charities that can offer support can be found on our website.
Details of The Haven can be found online. You can also call them on 020 3299 6900 – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
