In a landmark verdict, Adilson Domingos and Baxton Atenis have been found guilty of raping a teenage girl at an address in north London. The Wood Green Crown Court delivered its judgment on February 1, 2024, following a three-week trial.

On Monday, July 1, 2024, the court sentenced Atenis to 13 years in prison for two counts of rape, while Domingos received a 12-year prison term.

The harrowing incident unfolded on July 11, 2021, when the victim, then 16 years old, was out with a friend in central London. Domingos and Atenis approached her, coercing her into their car. They then drove her to Atenis’ address in South Tottenham, where both men committed the heinous act.

Despite the trauma, the victim managed to escape the house in the early hours of the next day and immediately contacted the police. Detectives from the Sapphire team, based in the North Area covering South Tottenham, launched an intensive investigation. The victim’s detailed account, including the car description and address, played a crucial role in tracking down the perpetrators.

The victim also provided a phone number given to her by Atenis, which led to the identification and subsequent arrest of Domingos. Detectives discovered Domingos’ social media profile, further linking him to the crime. Both men were released on bail while evidence was compiled, and they were subsequently charged with rape in December 2022.

Detective Constable Daniella Biggins, who led the investigation, praised the victim’s courage and the witnesses who came forward. She emphasised that Domingos and Atenis posed a significant danger to society and expressed hope that the conviction would provide some closure for the victim.

DC Biggins urged victims and witnesses of sexual assault to contact the police, assuring them of support from specially trained officers. The conviction serves as a stark reminder that those who commit such heinous offences will face justice in the courts.