A UK court has sentenced Guy Mukendi, a 39-year-old man from South London, to four years and three months in prison for non-consensual condom removal during sex. The London Metropolitan Police, who spearheaded the investigation, hailed the case as a “milestone” in the fight against sexual violence.
Mukendi was convicted in April after a young woman reported the assault in Brixton, South London. The woman had agreed to have sex with Mukendi under the condition that he wore a condom. However, during the encounter, Mukendi removed the condom without her knowledge or consent.
Non-consensual condom removal, commonly referred to as “stealthing,” is legally classified as rape in England and Wales. Despite the severity of the crime, prosecutions are rare due to under-reporting.
The Metropolitan Police emphasized their commitment to pursuing justice for victims of sexual crimes, particularly those that disproportionately affect women and girls. “This milestone case reflects our pledge to be more suspect-focused in addressing crimes against women and girls,” stated the Met in a press release.
Mukendi was found guilty on April 2 at Inner London Crown Court and received his sentence at the same court. Detective Constable Jack Earl, who led the investigation, noted Mukendi’s persistent denial of wrongdoing throughout the process. “Our officers built a compelling case against him, leaving no doubt in the jury’s mind,” Earl said. “We were dedicated to securing justice for the victim and will continue to raise awareness that this crime is a form of rape.”
This case marks a significant step forward in the legal recognition and prosecution of stealthing as a form of sexual assault. The Met’s proactive stance and the successful conviction send a strong message about the seriousness of this crime and the ongoing efforts to protect and seek justice for Victims.
