A man from Oxford who preyed on a lone woman in Bedford before raping her has been convicted. He will be sentenced on 26 January.
Daniel Williams, 36, was found guilty of rape in connection to the attack in Biddenham Road in January 2022.
Williams, of Clarks Row, Oxford, followed the victim on his bike at 7.15am, approaching her from behind and dragging her to the floor before carrying out the serious sexual assault.
After the attack, the victim approached a member of the public for help, who contacted Bedfordshire Police for support.
Following an investigation, Williams was forensically linked to the attack.
He was found guilty of one count of rape at Luton Crown Court on Friday (19 November).
Detective Constable Peta Simpson from Bedfordshire Police’s Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) team, said: “Williams was an opportunist offender who preyed on a lone woman before carrying out this appalling sexual assault.
“Random attacks like these are extremely rare – but we will always relentlessly pursue the vile perpetrators of such abhorrent behaviour.
“The victim in this case has shown true courage to reach out for support from a member of the public and speak to officers, which helped to ensure Williams is facing a significant period behind bars.
“Women deserve to feel safe in public spaces – they should not have to worry and they shouldn’t have to look over their shoulders.
“We remain committed to ensuring predators like Williams are removed from our streets.”
