A predatory sex offender who deceived a young woman into believing he was a taxi driver before sexually assaulting her in a supermarket car park has been sentenced to prison. Kelvin Ndoro, 42, of Kings Street, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, pleaded guilty to sexual assault and received a 15-month custodial sentence at Nottingham Crown Court.
Deceptive Approach and Assault
The incident occurred in the early hours of May 18 last year. The victim, a woman in her 20s, was walking home from a night out in Nottingham when Ndoro pulled up beside her on South Sherwood Street in a VW Golf. He falsely claimed the vehicle was a taxi, convincing the woman to enter the front passenger seat.
Instead of driving her home as promised, Ndoro deliberately drove in the opposite direction, eventually stopping at the car park of a Lidl supermarket on Mansfield Road in the Midlands. Once there, he locked the doors and initiated a sexual assault by touching her leg, then suggested they move to the back of the car.
Victim's Quick Thinking and Escape
Recognising an opportunity to flee, the victim pretended to agree to move to the back seat. This allowed her to unlock the door and escape from the vehicle. She then hid and later sought assistance from passers-by, who helped her contact the authorities.
Nottinghamshire Police launched an immediate investigation, swiftly identifying Ndoro's vehicle and tracing his movements. He was arrested the following day at Toddington Services on the M1 in Bedfordshire, demonstrating the efficiency of the police response.
Police Investigation and Sentencing
Detective Constable Rebecca Walker of Nottinghamshire Police emphasised the traumatic impact of the assault, stating, "This must have been a terrifying experience for the young woman and we know it has had a lasting psychological impact upon her." She praised the victim's quick thinking, which enabled her escape after being duped into the car.
Walker added, "Ndoro's behaviour was predatory and officers worked quickly to identify his vehicle, trace it and arrest him. We then built a strong case against him, whilst supporting the victim, leaving Ndoro with no option but to admit what he had done."
In addition to the 15-month prison sentence handed down on February 5, Ndoro has been placed on the sex offenders register for a period of 10 years. This registration imposes strict monitoring requirements and restrictions to prevent reoffending.
Broader Implications and Community Safety
This case highlights ongoing concerns about personal safety, particularly for individuals travelling alone at night. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and verify taxi services through licensed providers or reputable apps. The conviction serves as a reminder of the serious consequences for such predatory crimes and the importance of robust police work in securing justice for victims.
The victim's bravery in cooperating with the investigation was crucial in building the case against Ndoro, ensuring he faced legal accountability for his actions. Nottinghamshire Police continue to support victims of sexual offences while pursuing offenders through the judicial system.
