olice are hunting a rapist after he failed to turn up to his sentencing where he was jailed for five-and-a-half years.
William White, 24, was found guilty of raping a woman as she slept after a party in his east London home during a “horrifying ordeal”.
But the convicted rapist failed to appear at his sentencing at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Tuesday and is now urgently wanted by police.
The survivor bravely faced her attacker in court describing how she had gone to White’s address in Hackney with a friend for a social gathering in January 2020.
She told the jury how she had trusted White, having already known him through friends.
After falling asleep she later woke to find White raping her. She reported the brutal sex attack to police two days later.
DC Jamie Merrill, the investigating officer, said: “White subjected the victim to a horrifying ordeal when she was asleep and vulnerable.
“Throughout the trial he attempted to mislead the court about his actions, but the 12 men and women of the jury correctly identified his dishonesty and convicted him unanimously of rape.
“Significant resources are being brought to bear to apprehend White so he can face justice. I urge anybody with information about White’s whereabouts to contact police immediately.”
DC Merrill added: “I hope that today’s sentence will bring a small measure of peace to the victim and a sense that justice has been served.”
PC Rita Stepanoviene, a specialist officer who worked on the case supporting the survivor, added: “I wish to thank this young lady and her close friend who came forward to provide the crucial evidence needed to convict White.
“They have both been incredibly brave, and by coming forward they have undoubtedly protected others from being targeted by this dangerous individual.”
Anyone who has information concerning the whereabouts of William White should call 101 or Tweet @MetCC. To remain 100% anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.