WEST LONDON TATTOO ARTIST JAILED FOR RAPE
A 37-year-old man, Dewal Dos Santos Silva, who was operating as an unlicensed tattoo artist, was found guilty of raping a woman at his residence on High Road, Wembley, in West London.The assault took place after the woman, who had previously received a piercing from him, visited his studio for a tattoo on October 30, 2020.
During her visit, she became drowsy and lost consciousness.
She later regained awareness to find Dos Santos Silva assaulting her.
After the incident, he sent a message via text, offering an apology and inquiring if she was upset with him.
The woman sought help at a specialized support center, leading to police involvement the following day, November 1.
Dos Santos Silva was detained on November 3 and denied any knowledge of the rape.
Forensic investigations confirmed his involvement.
On November 17, he was convicted of rape at Harrow Crown Court and sentenced to 13 years in prison, with an additional five years on license.
He was cleared of a charge related to administering a substance with intent.
Detective Constable Ian Smith emphasized the importance of victims coming forward and encouraged others to report similar incidents.
