Predator Behind Bars: Man, Dwayne Aitken, Jailed for 18 Years For Grooming and Sexually Abusing a Young Girl in Hackney

A man in Hackney who approached a young girl and later groomed and sexually abused her has been sentenced to 18 years in prison following a thorough investigation by local law enforcement officers.

Detectives from the Central East Command, responsible for Hackney and Tower Hamlets, initiated their inquiry when the young survivor revealed the abuse to a teacher.

Dwayne Aitken, aged 43 (born on April 27, 1980), residing on Brooke Road in Stoke Newington, received his sentence at Wood Green Crown Court on September 12. He was found guilty of multiple sexual offenses, including three counts of rape, on August 17.

In addition to his prison term, Aitken was issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Detective Constable Rob Johnston, the lead investigator, commented, "Aitken subjected a young girl to horrifying sexual abuse, and the evidence we collected during our investigation left no doubt about his guilt. The young survivor displayed tremendous strength and bravery throughout this ordeal."

"She received specialized support during this challenging period, and I hope this case serves as a strong reminder of our unwavering commitment to bringing sexual offenders to justice. At the Metropolitan Police, we are committed to transforming how we protect vulnerable individuals and combat violence perpetrated by predatory individuals against women and children."

The court heard that Aitken specifically targeted the 13-year-old girl after approaching her on February 24, 2019, while she was walking along Brooke Road, Stoke Newington. He introduced himself as 'Sean' and instructed her to wait for him in Stoke Newington Common. 

Frightened and unsure, she contacted her friends. Aitken then invited her to his apartment, and she reluctantly agreed.

While at the apartment, the victim asked if she could invite her friends, and Aitken consented. During their time there, the group confronted Aitken and informed him that the survivor was only 11 years old, urging him to leave her alone. One of them even recorded their conversation with Aitken.

In August 2019, Aitken sexually abused the girl for the first time. Subsequent meetings occurred, with Aitken continuously aware of her age. She even visited his home while still in her school uniform.

The victim, now 17, conveyed the following message to Dwayne Aitken: "I know this may seem like a big joke to you, but I hope you understand you've not only ruined my life but also my family's. You laughed hysterically the last time I saw you outside. Every night, I cried myself to sleep, thinking about how cruel one can be."

"A person can tell 100 lies, but the truth will always remain the truth. You've taken so much from me, but I refuse to be your victim for the rest of my life."

"To anyone who has experienced or is currently going through sexual assault, you are not alone. It's never too late to speak out. There are people who will listen to your story and help you fight for justice, as well as officers who will guide you through the entire process."

"Don't feel humiliated, embarrassed, or unheard."

On January 30, 2020, police became aware of the girl's disclosures to her school via Social Services, triggering an immediate investigation into child sexual exploitation.

Aitken was arrested on February 13, 2020, after the girl was discovered leaving his residence, and he was issued a Child Abduction Warning Notice.

He was charged on September 30, 2022, and subsequently found guilty at trial of multiple offenses, including rape, attempted rape, drug-related charges, sexual assault, and inciting sexual activity with a child.

In another news, a 25-year-old woman from Kenya is facing charges of arson after she allegedly set fire to her ex-boyfriend's house, causing damage estimated at Sh120,000 (over $800). See detailed story here

[SOURCE]