A rape victim robbed of her innocence and childhood by a “manipulative” sex predator spoke of her ordeal after finally getting justice three decades on.
Colin Moore, 58, raped a girl under 16 between 1995 and 1999.
Moore’s attacks took place at locations in west and central London, including at her mother’s flat and Victoria Station.
But in 2020, she came forward as an adult and reported the abuse to police.
At Isleworth Crown Court on Friday, Moore, of Grove Lane, Camberwell in Southwark was sentenced to 15 years in prison on all nine counts of rape and indecent assault.
His victim-survivor – now aged 41 – urged other women to regain their voice and “speak up without fear”, adding: “I’m elated to say that justice has been served.
“I overcame mental turmoil to fight for what is right.
“I’m very grateful to everyone who has supported this process and the network that has fed me motivation and courage throughout.
“After years of trying to forget the innocence that had been taken from my childhood, I wasn’t satisfied my abuser lived without consequence while I suffered the aftermath of his actions.
“I hope my story can inspire others to stand up against their abusers no matter the obstacles.
“Every woman deserves a voice; to speak up without fear and stand up against abuse.”
The court heard how Moore took advantage of the girl – who was under the age of 16 at the time.
Detectives worked tirelessly to gather enough evidence, including voice recorded interviews, to unearth what had happened and build a case against Moore.
With the co-operation of witnesses who gave vital statements, he was arrested and subsequently charged with numerous offences.
Detective Constable Laura Harcombe, who led the investigation, said: “Colin Moore is a sexual predator who manipulated and abused a vulnerable young girl he knew, as well as lying to the police.
“We were able to build a comprehensive investigation – from so many years ago – to bring justice to an innocent young woman.
“This woman has shown incredible courage to report the abuse she suffered over a prolonged period of time to police and we thank her for coming forward – as well as the witnesses for the time they gave us to provide key evidence.
“We hope this sentence brings a semblance of peace to the woman at the centre of the case and allows a level of freedom to move forward with her life now she knows her abuser is behind bars.”
The Metropolitan Police says it is working hard to identify and tackle the most dangerous and prolific perpetrators of violence against women and girls.
Anyone who has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, should always call 999 in an emergency.
