VIRGIL ARHIP SENTENCED IN LEICESTER FOR BRUTAL SEX ATTACK AND BURGLARY

Virgil Arhip, a man with a troubling criminal history, has been handed a severe prison sentence of 12 years following a horrifying assault on a 65-year-old woman inside her own Leicester home. The incident, which took place in the quiet residential area of Leicester, shocked the local community and drew significant attention from law enforcement authorities.

According to court reports, Arhip, who was heavily intoxicated and under the influence of the synthetic drug Mamba at the time, forcibly entered the victim’s residence. Once inside, he subjected her to a brutal and sustained attack, pinning her down on her bed and beating her to the point of causing more than 30 injuries. These injuries included both external wounds such as bruises and lacerations to her face and neck, as well as internal trauma. The judge described the assault as 'barbaric,' emphasizing the viciousness and brutality of Arhip’s actions, which left the elderly woman terrified and physically harmed.

Despite her desperate screams for help, Arhip showed no mercy and continued his assault when she challenged him. The victim’s ordeal was further compounded when Arhip was apprehended nearby. During his arrest, he provided a false name and claimed innocence, attempting to evade responsibility. Evidence collected at the scene revealed that he was wearing stolen jeans taken from the victim’s residence, linking him directly to the crime. DNA analysis confirmed his involvement, as his genetic material was found on vaginal swabs taken from the woman, leaving no doubt about his participation in the sexual assault.

In court, Arhip pleaded guilty to charges of rape and burglary. His demeanor during the proceedings was notably callous; he laughed when shown photographs of the injuries he inflicted and told police that he believed the victim was 'old.' The judge condemned his lack of remorse and highlighted his dangerousness, referencing his previous convictions for dishonesty in Romania and Germany. The court also noted his psychiatric history, revealing that he had undergone treatment in Romania where he was considered 'crazy,' raising concerns about his mental health and potential for future harm.

The sentence handed down includes a minimum term of two-thirds to be served behind bars, with an additional four-year extension on his license to ensure public protection. Detective Inspector Gareth Goddard praised the bravery of the victim and emphasized the importance of victims coming forward to report such crimes. He also commended the police for their swift and thorough investigation, which led to Arhip’s conviction and subsequent sentencing, bringing some measure of justice to the victim and the Leicester community.