FLORIS GHERGHELAU, THE DANGEROUS PREDATOR FROM CAMBERLEY, SENTENCED FOR RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT

In March 2019, a disturbing case of sexual violence unfolded in Camberley, involving Floris-Adrian Gherghelau, a 25-year-old man whose actions have left a lasting impact on his victim and the community. Gherghelau was convicted of heinous crimes after a series of events that culminated in a brutal assault on an 18-year-old girl.

According to court proceedings, the incident took place in July 2018, in an area near the Camberley Health Centre car park. The victim, who was walking alone after finishing her shift at a local supermarket, was being followed by Gherghelau, who had previously spotted her while drinking a Coca Cola outside the shop and found her attractive. Unaware of his presence, she took a shortcut through a nearby car park, only to be suddenly approached by Gherghelau, who clamped his hand over her mouth to silence her.

What followed was a terrifying ordeal that lasted approximately ninety minutes. Gherghelau forcibly dragged the young woman into nearby bushes, where he subjected her to a prolonged rape. The victim, in a state of shock and fear, managed to escape and sought help at a petrol station close by. Staff at the station contacted the police, and she was able to provide a detailed description of her attacker.

Forensic evidence played a crucial role in the case. DNA samples collected from the victim matched Gherghelau’s genetic profile, leading to his arrest. Despite initially denying the charges during police interviews, Gherghelau was later found guilty of two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and attempted rape after a trial at Guildford Crown Court.

During the sentencing hearing, the court heard the emotional and psychological toll the assault had taken on the victim. Her impact statement revealed that she had taken an overdose, was constantly checking locks and blinds, and even sleeping with a knife for protection. She described experiencing flashbacks and seeing the defendant in public, despite knowing he was in prison at the time. Her testimony underscored the profound and lasting trauma inflicted by the attack.

Prosecutor Ryan Richter read from her statement, emphasizing her ongoing struggles with anxiety, fear, and nightmares. The victim expressed her difficulty in attending the trial and giving evidence, highlighting the severe emotional distress caused by the incident.

Gherghelau’s defense, represented by June Venters QC, argued that the defendant had not accepted full responsibility for his actions and lacked insight into the gravity of his crimes. He claimed that Gherghelau expressed remorse, though the court noted that his remorse appeared to be more about his own situation than genuine regret for the victim’s suffering. The defense also highlighted Gherghelau’s desire to work and start a family, which he now understood was impossible due to his actions.

In January 2019, the court confirmed Gherghelau’s status as a dangerous predator, sentencing him to 14 years in prison. The court also ordered his deportation back to Romania after serving his sentence, as per the legal procedures for foreign nationals convicted of serious crimes in the UK. The judge stated that there were no factors warranting his continued stay in the country, and Gherghelau’s actions had irrevocably altered his future prospects.

This case underscores the severity of sexual violence and the importance of forensic evidence in securing justice. It also highlights the ongoing trauma experienced by victims and the need for robust legal measures to protect the community from dangerous offenders like Floris-Adrian Gherghelau, whose crimes have left a permanent scar on the town of Camberley.