A jury has today convicted a masked rapist who forced his way into a woman’s home and attacked her weeks before Christmas.
Jason Wren, 32, handed himself in to police just hours after his picture was published by local media including Sussex News six months ago.
Wren, of Redmayne Drive, Hastings, was convicted of raping the woman in Milward Crescent, Hastings, at Hove Crown Court today (Tuesday 3 June) after a police operation known as Op Chalton.
Judge Christine Henson remanded Wren in custody and told him that he would be sentenced on Friday 12 September.
Sussex Police said: “A man has been found guilty of rape after he forced his way into a Hastings home and attacked a woman.
“An investigation was launched on Saturday 30 November 2024, following a report to police that a serious incident had taken place in a property in Milward Crescent.
“On the evening of the incident, the victim opened the door in response to a knock, expecting it to be a delivery. Instead, a masked man, unknown to her, forced his way into the property.
“He attacked her in an ordeal that lasted around 15 minutes before fleeing the scene. The victim phoned 999 immediately and specialist officers were deployed to her address.
“Following fast-time house-to-house and CCTV inquiries, an image of the suspect was obtained and media appeals were launched, leading to a 32-year-old man handing himself into Hastings Police Station on Saturday 7 December.
“At the station, Jason Wren, of Redmayne Drive, Hastings, was arrested on suspicion of rape and taken to custody.
“In his interview, he categorically denied the rape, stating that it had been a consensual encounter with the victim that had been arranged the day before when they had passed each other in the street.
“Despite Wren’s claim, charges were authorised the following day for rape, attempted rape and knowingly or recklessly trespassing on a premises with the intent to commit a sexual offence.
“He was remanded into custody and pleaded not guilty to the offences when he appeared in court on Monday 6 January.
“Today (Tuesday 3 June), following a six-day trial at Hove Crown Court, the jury found Wren guilty of rape, attempted rape and trespass with intent to commit a sexual offence.
“He has been remanded back into custody to await his sentencing on Friday 12 September.”
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cullimore, from the Major Crime Team, said: “This was a terrifying ordeal that happened in the victim’s own home, a place she should be able to feel completely safe.
“I’d like to commend her for the courage she has shown throughout this investigation and I hope this outcome marks the beginning of her journey towards healing and closure.
“Jason Wren fabricated a story about meeting the victim in the street and arranging an encounter for the following day.
“The truth is he had never met the victim before and, instead, forced his way into her home with the sole purpose of attacking her for his own sexual gratification.
“I’m pleased the jury were able to see through his claims and rightly hold him to account for his predatory and violent behaviour.
“I’d like to thank all the witnesses and members of the public who supported our investigation which, under the national Operation Soteria model, was victim-centred, suspect-focused and context-led.
“I’d also like to reassure victims of rape that they will always be listened to – no one has the right to violate another person and we are committed to ensuring survivors are supported and heard.
“To make a report to police, call 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.”
