A man in his 60s was allegedly raped outside St John’s Church in Harrow during the early hours of Wednesday morning, with a 32-year-old suspect arrested at the scene and charged with the serious sexual assault.
Police rushed to Station Road in the north-west London borough at 00:49 BST following reports of a sexual assault. Officers found the victim, a man in his 60s, who is now receiving support from specialist officers trained in handling sexual violence cases.
Bruke Desalagne, 32, of no fixed address, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of sexual assault and rape. The Metropolitan Police confirmed he was charged with rape on Wednesday, 23 July, and was scheduled to appear at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Thursday morning.
Forensic Investigation at Historic Church
Two distinctive yellow and white forensic tents were erected outside St John’s Church, located opposite the former Debenhams building on Station Road. The area remained cordoned off throughout Wednesday as forensic teams gathered evidence.
“Officers were called at 00:49hrs on Wednesday, 23 July to reports of a sexual assault on Station Road, Harrow,” a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said. “The victim, a man in his 60s, is being supported by specialist officers.”
The historic church grounds became the focus of an intensive police investigation, with an increased police presence maintained in the area whilst enquiries continued. Local residents reported seeing multiple police vehicles and forensic teams working at the scene throughout the day.
Isolated Incident, Police Confirm
Authorities have indicated they believe this to be an isolated incident, though the investigation remains ongoing. The suspect was arrested immediately at the scene, preventing any further risk to the public.
Mr Desalagne was arrested at the scene on suspicion of sexual assault and charged as above,” the police spokesperson confirmed, emphasising the swift police response to the serious allegation.
The case has shocked the local community in Harrow, where violent crimes of this nature remain relatively rare. Station Road, a busy thoroughfare in central Harrow, is typically bustling with activity during daytime hours but would have been largely deserted at the time of the alleged attack.
Support Services Mobilised
The victim is receiving comprehensive support from specially trained officers who work with survivors of sexual violence. The Metropolitan Police’s specialist sexual offences teams are trained to handle such sensitive cases with appropriate care and professionalism.
Sexual assault support services across London have robust systems in place to assist victims. The Havens, London’s Sexual Assault Referral Centres, provide immediate support and can be reached on 020 3299 6900. These centres offer forensic medical examinations, counselling, and advocacy services for anyone affected by sexual violence.
“Specialist support is crucial in these cases,” according to support service protocols. Victims can access help whether or not they choose to report to police, with services including medical care, emotional support, and practical assistance.
Court Appearance and Legal Proceedings
Desalagne was remanded to appear at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 24 July. The court, located on High Road in north-west London, regularly handles cases from across the boroughs of Brent, Harrow, and Barnet.
Given the serious nature of the charge, the case may be referred to Crown Court for trial if the defendant enters a not guilty plea or if magistrates determine their sentencing powers are insufficient. Rape cases typically proceed to Crown Court due to the severity of potential sentences.
The legal process for such serious sexual offences involves careful gathering of forensic evidence, witness statements, and comprehensive support for the victim throughout what can be a lengthy court process.
Community Impact and Police Response
The incident has prompted discussions about safety in the area, particularly during night-time hours. Harrow Police have maintained an increased presence around Station Road to reassure residents and gather any additional information from potential witnesses.
Local community groups have expressed shock at the incident. The area around St John’s Church is generally considered safe, with the church serving as a longstanding community landmark in central Harrow.
“Anyone with information is urged to contact police via 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111,” police advised, as they continue to appeal for witnesses who may have been in the area during the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Wider Context of Sexual Violence Support
The case highlights the ongoing work of specialist police units and support services in addressing sexual violence. London has comprehensive support networks for survivors of sexual assault, regardless of gender, age, or background.
West London Rape Crisis Centre, which covers Harrow among other boroughs, provides specialist support including Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ISVA) services. These advocates offer one-to-one practical and emotional support throughout the criminal justice process.
Male survivors can also access dedicated support through organisations like SurvivorsUK, which provides specialist services for men and boys affected by sexual violence. The organisation operates helplines and counselling services specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by male survivors.
Investigation Continues
As the criminal proceedings advance, police continue their investigation to build a comprehensive case. The forensic evidence gathered at the scene will form a crucial part of the prosecution’s case if the matter proceeds to trial.
The Metropolitan Police’s Sapphire teams, who specialise in investigating serious sexual offences, bring extensive expertise to such cases. Their approach combines thorough investigative techniques with trauma-informed practices to support victims through the justice process.
Residents with any information about the incident, however minor it may seem, are encouraged to come forward. Even small details can prove significant in building a complete picture of events.
Resources for Those Affected
For anyone affected by sexual violence, support is available through multiple channels. The Havens operate 24/7 on 020 3299 6900, offering immediate help and advice. Galop provides specialist support for LGBT+ survivors on 0207 704 2040.
The Survivors Trust network includes over 120 member organisations across the UK, providing support to survivors of sexual violence and abuse. Their services include counselling, support groups, and advocacy.
Local support in Harrow is also available through the borough’s Violence Against Women and Girls services, which can be accessed through Harrow Council’s support networks.
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