A 25-year-old man from Dagenham has been sentenced to over ten years in prison following a terrifying week of violence and sexual assault in Romford. Sam Price forced his victim to remain in her home, where he subjected her to continuous abuse, threats, and rape.
Price, who lives on Central Park Avenue, appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, 5 July. He received a sentence of ten and a half years for rape and two counts of assault. Additionally, he was issued a lifetime restraining order and will be registered as a sex offender for life.
The ordeal began on Sunday, 16 July 2023, when Price met the woman and exchanged contact details. Within days, the abuse escalated significantly. Price repeatedly punched and bit the victim, threatened her, and raped her. This harrowing experience lasted seven days, during which the victim was trapped and intimidated.
After Price left the property, the victim reached out to a friend who immediately contacted the police. Officers quickly obtained CCTV footage and witness statements, initiating a covert manhunt that led to Price’s arrest at an address in Dagenham. He was interviewed by the Metropolitan Police’s East Area Public Protection Unit on 26 July.
Following a trial in April, Price was found guilty of rape and assault, having previously pleaded guilty to an additional assault charge.
PC Ugne Draz, Sexual Offences Liaison Officer, stated: “The victim has shown incredible courage throughout this investigation. It’s been a long process, but her bravery has ensured that Sam Price has been brought to justice.”
Detective Constable Jess Stephens added: “This conviction is a powerful result. We hope it encourages more women to come forward and report these crimes. Tackling violence against women and girls remains a top priority.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
