Alexandru Oprea

Detectives are carrying out extensive enquiries to locate a man who is wanted after failing to answer to court bail and attend his trial.

Alexandru Oprea was jailed in his absence for more than eight years by the judge at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday 19 June.

In April the jury had convicted him on six charges:

Rape
Two counts of sexual assault
Indecent exposure
Putting a person in fear of violence by harassment
Importation of a weapon
He was found not guilty of assault by penetration and controlling/coercive behaviour.

The 34-year-old, from Leicester, assaulted his victim in 2023 in Essex.

Following the sentencing she said:

"I have waited three years for this moment, I am praying every day that he will be found as soon as possible, people like him do not deserve to be free with no consequences.
"I am still struggling to calm myself because after the sentencing it feels like everything is coming back to my mind.
"I am extremely grateful for all the support."

Sentenced to more than 11 years
Essex Police launched an investigation in September 2023.

Oprea, a Romanian national, was sentenced to 11 years and 10 months. When apprehended he must serve 8 years and 10 months in prison and a further three on extended licence.

He has also been placed on the sex offenders register and is subject to a restraining order.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Zoe Waddup said:

"We are focused on locating Oprea as quickly as possible to ensure he serves the sentence.
"We are working closely with the survivor in this case.
"We know the impact this abhorrent offending has had, and we are working tirelessly to locate him.
"I would appeal directly to the defendant to contact us and hand himself in. Our work to find him will not stop."

Anyone who has any information regarding the whereabouts of Oprea should contact police immediately.

Please quote 42/MR/23938/23.

Do you have any information?
Anyone with information should contact us as soon as possible.

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