Man found guilty of rape and blackmail of a child after trial at St Albans Crown Court
Bryan Mavinga faces sentencing for serious crimes involving deception and grooming
A 24-year-old London man has been convicted of four counts of rape and blackmail following a trial at St Albans Crown Court.
The conviction for Bryan Mavinga from Beaumont Road was reached on 15th July when the jury returned unanimous guilty verdicts after three hours and 17 minutes of deliberation.
Mavinga, known as Mav, used a false online identity to deceive and gain the trust of a child in Hertfordshire.
Over a span of two years starting in 2024, he subjected the victim to a series of sexual abuses and threats.
Detective Constable Daniel Auchincloss from the Sexual Offences Investigation Team highlighted the tactics used by offenders, saying: "This case demonstrates how offenders can use false online identities, deception and coercive tactics to exploit children. We would encourage anyone who has experienced sexual abuse or sexual violence to come forward and report it, no matter how long ago it happened."
He reassured victims of sexual offences about their entitlements, stating, "All victims of sexual offences are entitled to automatic lifelong anonymity, and any reports will be handled with the utmost sensitivity. There is support available and you will be listened to."
Mavinga is scheduled for sentencing at St Albans Crown Court on 29th September.