A 35-year-old man has been sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for the rape of a teenage girl after luring her into his vehicle under the pretence of offering her a lift home. Victor Popa was convicted following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh and has been placed on the sex offender register indefinitely.
Details of the Predatory Attack
The attack occurred in Aberdeen during the early hours of January 15, 2024. Popa targeted the 14-year-old victim, who was simply trying to return home safely. The court heard evidence that he used significant force during the assault, causing injury to the girl, with prosecutors believing some of this violence occurred while she was unconscious.
Comprehensive Evidence Led to Conviction
The prosecution presented a compelling case built on multiple forms of evidence, including CCTV footage and text messages, which substantiated the victim's account. This evidence demonstrated the thorough investigative work conducted by police officers and prosecutors to uncover the full details of the crime and secure a conviction.
In addition to the prison sentence and sex offender registration, the court imposed a non-harassment order prohibiting Popa from contacting the victim. This measure aims to provide ongoing protection for the young girl following the traumatic experience.
Official Statements Condemn the Violence
Procurator Fiscal Faye Cook of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service stated: "Violence against women and girls has no place in our society. This was a predatory and deeply distressing attack on a child who was simply trying to get home safely."
She continued: "The evidence presented to the jury showed the careful work of police officers and prosecutors to uncover what happened and to hold Victor Popa to account. I want to recognise the courage shown by the young victim and her family throughout the prosecution process. Their strength has helped bring a dangerous offender to justice."
Cook emphasised the ongoing commitment to pursuing those who target women and girls, stating: "The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service will continue to use every tool available to pursue those who target women and girls, and to protect the public from harm."
Police Praise Victim's Courage
Detective Chief Inspector Steven McDonald of Police Scotland described Popa as "a dangerous individual who posed a risk to women and girls and preyed on this young girl's vulnerability." He noted that the incident was "extremely frightening for the girl who simply wanted to get home."
McDonald added: "We remain committed to working with our partners to create a society where women and girls live free from violence, abuse, exploitation and harassment. Where offences are reported, we will respond with swift and robust investigations by specially trained officers. I'd like to thank the girl for her courage throughout and to her family for their support during our investigation."
The conviction and sentencing highlight the serious consequences for such predatory crimes and the importance of victim support throughout the legal process. The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and judicial authorities to combat violence against women and children in society.
