Rapist plotted to flee country after brutal attack on young woman | UK | News
A 22-year-old Brazilian who raped a young woman in Euston Road and tried to leave England shortly afterwards has been jailed. Hassan Alsarout, a Brazilian citizen of no fixed abode, carried out the attack in a secluded area in October last year.
The victim reported the rape and made a detailed statement to police on the morning of October 9 following the attack. Officers seized CCTV footage and digital evidence immediately after being tipped off. Investigators identified Alsarout as a suspect and launched a nationwide search, finding he had left London and traveled to the West Midlands.
He was eventually tracked to an address in Coventry and police officers established that he was planning to travel to Denmark the next day. Alsarout was arrested on October 10, 2025, less than 24 hours after the crime.
Within hours he was detained, interrogated and charged. He later pleaded guilty to rape at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 20 February.
Evidence collected during the investigation included digital analysis that identified a phone call Alsarout made shortly after the attack. Investigators also found evidence that he attempted to destroy forensic equipment by washing his clothes shortly after the crime, further supporting the case against him.
He was sentenced to five years and seven months in prison on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. He was also placed on the sex offenders register for life and will be deported from the UK after his sentence. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Ridley said the victim’s statement was central to securing the conviction.
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Ridley added: “I would like to commend the victim for her bravery and resilience in coming forward and supporting the investigation. Her evidence was crucial to bringing this criminal to justice and preventing harm to other women across the country.”
“My investigation team acted with absolute urgency to identify, locate and arrest Alsarout. Their determined efforts prevented him from fleeing the UK and ensured he was brought to justice.
“This case demonstrates the Metropolitan Police’s tireless efforts to tackle violence against women and girls with a proactive approach that puts victims first and ensures they are fully supported by specialist teams.”
Specialist rape and serious sexual offense teams worked with the victim throughout the investigation. The Metropolitan Police said training had been expanded across the organisation, with more than 23,000 officers and staff trained to deal with such cases. Police said this has contributed to an increase in charging decisions.
