A man from Stevenage has been convicted of raping and assaulting a woman in Essex.

Koffi Hamilton, 25, of Archer Road, Stevenage, admitted charges of rape and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, on the first day of his trial at Chelmsford Crown Court yesterday (March 4).

The conviction follows two incidents which occurred in west Essex, dating back to 2018.

In August 2018, Hamilton assaulted his victim by repeatedly punching them to the head, causing injuries. In June 2020, he raped the same victim, strangling them in the process.

The victim reported these incidents in January 2021, with immediate support put in place for them as specialist officers launched an investigation.

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Hamilton was located and arrested in September 2023.

He will be sentenced on Wednesday, April 10, at Chelmsford Crown Court.

"Support for those who have suffered sexual abuse or violence is always out there," said Detective Constable Adina Fenstad, of West Adult Sexual Abuse Investigation Team.

"No victim or survivor is ever alone and we will always listen. You will be heard, supported and protected throughout our investigation.

"Thanks to the persistence of our investigation and the fortitude shown by the victim in this case, we were able to secure a conviction.

"Hopefully seeing justice done against Hamilton will provide the victim with a degree of closure."