A Metropolitan Police officer has been convicted of rape following an attack on a woman after a party. PC Rupert Edwards, who served with the South West Command Unit, was found guilty of raping a woman in January 2018 while off-duty. The offence was reported to authorities in October 2023.
Edwards was convicted at Southwark Crown Court on Friday. Chief Superintendent Dan Knowles, responsible for policing in south-west London, condemned the crime, stating: "This was a despicable offence and I have huge admiration and gratitude for the victim for having the courage to come forward and report PC Edwards."
Detectives conducted a thorough investigation, ensuring Edwards was charged promptly and that compelling evidence was presented in court. Knowles noted: "It was a bold step to use evidence from his previous trial to support this latest prosecution and demonstrates our commitment to supporting victims of police perpetrated abuse."
He added: "Dangerous offenders of all types who seek to harm women and girls will be relentlessly pursued and justice will be served. My message to anyone who may have experienced something that didn’t feel right is that you can and should come forward. You will be listened to, and we will do everything we can to support you."
Edwards now faces an accelerated misconduct hearing as a result of his conviction.
