Keanu Vella, a registered sex offender, has been sentenced to over 12 years in prison for rape, false imprisonment, and breaching his court-ordered notification requirements.
Detective Constable Jessica Stephens of the Met’s East Area Public Protection Unit emphasized that Vella poses a clear danger to women and has repeatedly failed to comply with legal notifications meant to monitor him. "His imprisonment ensures he no longer poses a threat to women and girls," she said.
Stephens also expressed hope that this case encourages other victims of sexual offences to come forward. "It's crucial these offences are reported so we can support victims and build cases to bring offenders to justice," she added.
Keanu Vella, 30, of Maldon Walk, Woodford Green, appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Thursday, 11 July. For failing to comply with notification requirements, he received a 40-week prison sentence to run concurrently. For false imprisonment, he was sentenced to four years, also concurrent. For rape, he received 12 years and nine months' imprisonment, with an extended license period totaling 18 years and nine months.
The Met Police revealed that Vella failed to notify his offender management officer after changing his address to Maldon Walk, Woodford. While at this new address on 10 May 2023, Vella arranged for a woman offering escort services to visit him. When the agreed appointment time ended, he held her at knifepoint and raped her.
A passerby found the victim in a distressed state outside the address, prompting a call to the police. Vella was arrested at the scene. He was charged on 12 May 2023 and remanded in custody, later pleading guilty to failing to comply with notification requirements. On 12 March 2024, he pleaded guilty to the other offences at Snaresbrook Crown Court and was remanded ahead of sentencing.
PC Emma Porter, the victim’s Sexual Offence Liaison Officer who supported her throughout the process, praised the victim's strength, courage, and patience. "With Vella behind bars, I sincerely hope she can move forward with her life," she said.
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