By Lucy Caulkett-
A man has been sentenced for sexually assaulting multiple lone women on trains.
Adriano Repetti has been sentenced to four years and 10 months in prison for sexually assaulting multiple lone women on trains between Cambridge and Kings Cross. Described by authorities as a “predator,” Repetti employed a disturbing modus operandi to trap and assault his victims.
The perpetrator’s sinister pattern involved choosing a seat near a lone woman, strategically placing them by the window. Feigning sleep, Repetti would then, with closed eyes, extend his hand to inappropriately touch his victims.
British Transport Police believe there might be additional unreported cases, urging potential victims to come forward.
Repetti’s crimes came to light when a brave woman, subjected to his advances on a train during the August bank holiday, took the initiative to text British Transport Police on 61016 while he was seated next to her.
In her message, she stated, “I have no idea where to report this to but some guy is touching me on the train.” Quick police response at Kings Cross station led to Repetti’s arrest.
A stroke of luck further exposed Repetti’s predatory behavior when another woman, witnessing his arrest, came forward to report an assault the previous weekend. Subsequent investigations uncovered two additional victims who had suffered assaults between July and August.
On July 22, a 25-year-old woman captured a photo of Repetti as she left a train where he had targeted her. On August 23, he sexually assaulted an 18-year-old woman, who bravely reported the incident to officers at Kings Cross.
During police interviews, Repetti shockingly admitted his actions without a hint of remorse, claiming he did not think he had specifically targeted women. The Inner London Crown Court sentenced him to nearly five years in prison for sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault by touching.
Detective Constable Mark Luker, the investigating officer, emphasized the trauma experienced by Repetti’s victims and commended their courage in coming forward. Luker warned potential offenders, stating, “Anyone using the rail network to offend in this way should know that British Transport Police have officers looking for you day and night. You will not get away with it.”
Detective Inspector Paul Attwell, the senior investigating officer, highlighted the vital role of victims and witnesses in reporting such crimes. He encouraged everyone to save 61016 or download the Railway Guardian app before traveling, allowing discreet communication with the police in case of emergencies.