Man jailed for raping teenage girl in London park

Otis Morrow sentenced to at least 16 years in prison for the attack in April

Otis Morrow attacked the girl when they moved into a secluded part of the park (London Metropolitan Police)

A man who raped a teenage girl in an east London park has been told he will have to serve at least 16 years in prison.

Otis Morrow from Leyton was handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 16 years at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 20 October after being found guilty of attacking the 17-year-old at Leyton Jubilee Park in April.

The court heard that police were called to the park at around 7pm on 19 April where the girl, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was found in a distressed and dishevelled state.

The girl said Morrow had approached her in the park and had asked her for a light for his cigarette. She said they then sat together and talked for a while before he asked her for help moving some items in the park.

Once they were in a secluded area of the park the 38-year-old pushed her to the ground, before sexually assaulting and then raping her.

Detectives from the child abuse and sexual offences command attended the scene and were able to identify Morrow from the girl's description.

Two hours later Morrow was arrested and taken to an east London police station where he was charged.

He was subsequently remanded to appear at Thames Magistrates Court where he pleaded not guilty and was transferred to the Crown Court.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Henry Marshall said: “This was a horrible attack on a girl who innocently wanted to help Morrow when he asked for help. He abused her trust, deceived and then caused her further physical and psychological harm.

“I hope the sentence served will allow her to move on with her life and be a warning to those intent on causing harm to others.”