Vincent Saxon, 54, of no fixed address, was jailed on Thursday, September 17, after pleading guilty to attempted rape. The incident occurred on a Bakerloo line train from Waterloo at around 11.40pm on July 11.
Saxon exposed himself to the female passenger before forcing her to the floor of the carriage. The victim fought back as the train reached Lambeth North, where she escaped and informed station staff about the attack. Saxon remained on the train and got off at Elephant and Castle station, where he disappeared.
Investigation and arrest
The British Transport Police (BTP) launched an urgent investigation, including online appeals that led to several people coming forward. An anonymous caller reported that a man matching Saxon's description was outside a shop on Fulham Palace Road, resulting in his arrest.
Saxon was remanded in custody to be sentenced at Inner London Crown Court on October 30.
Police praise for victim's bravery
Detective Sergeant Krishan Appannah praised the victim's actions: "First and foremost I would like to praise the victim for her bravery following what was clearly a terrifying ordeal. She was alone late at night when she was approached and attacked by Saxon without warning."
Appannah added: "She fought back ferociously against him before he fled. Her actions helped us recover vital forensic evidence that, along with our CCTV enquiries, would leave Saxon with no choice but to plead guilty."
Justice secured
Appannah concluded: "He is a dangerous and predatory offender and I'm pleased to see that we have secured justice for this brave victim, hopefully it will now be able to bring her some form of closure."
The conviction marks the end of a case that highlighted the vulnerability of lone travelers on the London Underground network. The BTP investigation demonstrated the effectiveness of public appeals and forensic evidence in securing a guilty plea.
