POLICE URGENTLY SEARCHING FOR LEICESTER MAN WHO FAILED TO APPEAR AT RAPE SENTENCING IN ESSEX
Law enforcement officers are actively seeking a man from Leicester who has a history of serious sexual crimes committed in Essex, despite not having appeared in court for his sentencing hearing.Alexandru Oprea, age 34, was absent during his trial, which resulted in a verdict and sentencing being handed down in his absence on June 19th.
He received a sentence exceeding eleven years in prison after being convicted at Chelmsford Crown Court.
The jury found him guilty of charges including rape, two counts of sexual assault, indecent exposure, harassment, and importing a weapon.
However, he was acquitted of assault by penetration and the offence of controlling or coercive behaviour.
Following the sentencing, the victim shared her feelings: "I have waited three years for this moment.
I pray daily that he will be found soon; individuals like him do not deserve to go unpunished and free without consequences." "I'm still trying to calm my mind, as everything seems to come flooding back after the sentencing.
I am very thankful for all the support I have received." The investigation into Oprea's offences began in September 2023, with all incidents reportedly occurring within Essex.
Detective Constable Zoe Waddup emphasized the urgency of finding Oprea: "Our primary focus is to locate Oprea quickly so he can serve his sentence.
We are collaborating closely with the affected individual." "The impact of his crimes is deeply troubling, and we are committed to finding him." She added a direct appeal: "We urge the defendant to contact us and surrender himself.
Our efforts to locate him will continue unremittingly." Oprea, a Romanian national, faces a prison term of 8 years and 10 months, with an additional three years on extended licence to reach his total sentence of 11 years and 10 months.
He is also required to register as a sex offender and is subject to a restraining order.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about Oprea’s location to contact them immediately, quoting reference 42/MR/23938/23.
