OLIVER BERNARD SENTENCED IN SWANLEY FOR COLD CASE RAPE IN LAMBETH

In a significant development in a long-standing criminal case, Oliver Bernard, a resident of Swanley, was finally brought to justice for a heinous crime that took place over sixteen years ago. The case, which had remained unresolved for years, was reopened by detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Sapphire Cold Case Unit, leading to Bernard’s conviction and subsequent sentencing.

On the evening of Thursday, January 25, 1996, a 14-year-old schoolgirl was walking along Christchurch Road in Lambeth when she was approached by Bernard. According to reports, Bernard initially asked her for money and a cigarette. When she refused, he attempted to engage her in conversation. As the girl became increasingly wary and tried to distance herself from him, Bernard’s demeanor turned threatening. He forcibly covered her mouth with his hand and threatened to 'cut her throat' if she screamed. At that moment, he pressed a knife to her throat, escalating the situation into a violent assault.

Bernard then dragged the young girl into a nearby garage area, where he committed the rape. Following the assault, Bernard attempted to follow her as she fled the scene. However, he slipped on some ice and fell into a nearby bush, which allowed the victim to escape and run home to alert the authorities. Despite extensive police inquiries at the time, no suspect was identified, and the case went cold for many years.

It was not until 2010 that the case was reopened by the Cold Case Sapphire Unit, which utilized modern forensic techniques to revisit the evidence. A sample from the original investigation was submitted to the police database, resulting in a match to Bernard, who had previously been arrested in connection with other matters. The victim, now in her 30s, was approached by police and expressed her willingness to assist with the prosecution.

On March 12, 2012, Bernard was arrested at his residence in Swanley on suspicion of the 1996 rape. He was taken to Lewisham police station, where he was formally charged. During the proceedings, Bernard pleaded guilty to the charges, leading to his sentencing on October 12 at the Old Bailey. He was sentenced to eight years in prison for his crimes.

Detective Constable Andy Beete of the Cold Case Team commented on the case, stating, “Bernard was a particularly callous individual who subjected his young victim to the most awful of ordeals. I am pleased it has been possible to bring him to justice and commend the victim’s bravery in supporting this prosecution.”

He also expressed concern that Bernard may have committed further sexual offenses, urging the public to assist in identifying him. Detective Beete released Bernard’s image, encouraging anyone who recognizes him to contact the Sapphire Cold Case Team at 020 7161 1034. For those wishing to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers can be reached at 0800 555 111.