Chinese PhD Student Convicted of Drugging and Raping Ten Women in UK
Zhenhao Zou, a Chinese PhD student, was found guilty of drugging and raping ten women across England and China from 2019 to 2023. With police estimating over 50 other possible victims, Zou’s actions have marked him as a notable sex offender in the UK. The court considered his methods of operation and the psychological impact on victims in the verdict.
In a significant legal ruling, Zhenhao Zou, a 28-year-old Chinese PhD student, was convicted by the Inner London Crown Court of drugging and raping ten women across England and China between 2019 and 2023. The court highlighted a troubling possibility that there may be over 50 additional victims, marking Zou as one of the most egregious sex offenders in UK history.
Zou faced eleven counts of rape, with the verdicts reached after extensive deliberations from the jury. The assaults were reported to have taken place in London and in an undisclosed location in China. Evidence presented in court included recordings of the attacks taken by Zou himself, who maintained that the sexual interactions were consensual. He is scheduled to receive his sentencing on June 19.
The trial revealed disturbing details about Zou’s methods; he utilized hidden cameras to record his assaults, which he referred to as “souvenirs,” and maintained a collection of personal items from his victims. The presiding judge, Rosina Cottage, characterized Zou as a “dangerous and predatory sexual offender,” emphasizing the expected severity of his sentence.
In addition to the rape charges, Zou was convicted on several other counts, including voyeurism and possession of extreme pornography. He had previously established a pattern of targeting fellow students of Chinese heritage through social platforms like WeChat, luring them to his residence with promises of social outings.
Metropolitan Police Commander Kevin Southworth commended the courage of the two women who came forward, indicating the possibility of numerous other victims. The police also noted deficiencies in communication during the initial reporting process of one incident, emphasizing the need for effective support for victims.
Zou’s academic journey began in Belfast at Queen’s University, before he transferred to University College London in 2019. UCL’s president, Dr. Michael Spence, expressed deep sympathy for the survivors and acknowledged the bravery of those who testified against Zou, underscoring the university’s commitment to supporting victims of such heinous acts.
The conviction of Zhenhao Zou represents a significant case in the fight against sexual violence, underlining the importance of legal accountability. As investigations suggest more than 50 potential victims, it highlights systemic issues surrounding victim support and the urgent need for enhanced protective measures for individuals targeted by predatory offenders. The justice system’s role in addressing these crimes is crucial to ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals.
Original Source: apnews.com
