DNA Match Helps Solve Hammersmith Rape Six Years On
Alejandros Quiroz Flores jailed for eight years
40-year-old Alejandros Quiroz Flores
November 30, 2023
A man has been jailed for eight years after DNA analysis showed a match with a sample from a rape in Hammersmith committed in 2017.
40-year-old Alejandros Quiroz Flores of Marloes Road, Kensington had been out for drinks on 13 August 2017 with a group of people who worked together including his victim. Later, Flores took the woman back to his previous home in Hammersmith where he raped her. She awoke during the attack and told him to stop, but he continued.
The following morning, she had flashbacks of being attacked and told friends who advised her to contact Flores. He denied that anything untoward had had taken place.
She attended a Haven clinic, which are specialist centres based in London for people who have been raped or sexually assaulted. Forensic samples were taken and she gave permission for her details to be disclosed to the police if DNA was identified. Flores’ DNA was subsequently identified from this evidence. Further investigation by police led to the discovery of vulnerable pictures of the woman in his possession, which provided additional evidence to bring him to justice.
His victim and three witnesses attended the trial at Isleworth Crown Court where the jury returned a guilty verdict on Thursday, 13 July.
He was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment on Wednesday, 29 November for rape and has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
The woman has since said,“This conviction is a significant step towards justice and closure for me. It validates the pain and trauma I have endured and it means that my voice has been heard.
“The justice system worked to hold the perpetrator accountable for his actions and although it cannot erase what happened, it does provide some sense of vindication and relief.
“This conviction also serves as a message that sexual assault is a crime that will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held responsible.”
She also appealed to other victim survivors to come forward to police adding,“To other victim survivors, I want to convey a message of encouragement and support. I understand the fear, shame, and stigma that can surround such experiences, but I also want you to know that you are not alone and your voice matters.
“Coming forward to report sexual assault is an incredibly brave and difficult step. It's a step towards healing, towards holding perpetrators accountable, and towards preventing further harm to others. Know that there is support available, you do not have to go through this journey alone. Your courage can make a difference, not only in your own life, but in the lives of others who may be suffering in silence.
“Remember, you are stronger than you think, and your story deserves to be heard and believed. You have the right to seek justice and heal.”
Detective Sergeant Imran Khan, who led the investigation, said,“Flores took total advantage of the victim survivor who had once been his friend and colleague. I want to commend her and the witnesses for their help in convicting this man.
“We know this investigation took many years to come to a successful conclusion, I would like to thank her for her continued support and perseverance.
“Some sexual predators believe they can get away with their crimes, but this case shows they cannot, and they will be brought to justice. I would urge anyone in this position to contact police or The Havens – you will be listened to and supported by specially trained officers."
Details of The Haven can be found online. You can also call them on 020 3299 6900 – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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