Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Eritrean Man Convicted of Raping Elderly Pensioner Outside Church

8/17/2026

39 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Eritrean Bruke Desalagne (33) was convicted of raping an elderly pensioner outside St John’s Church in Harrow.
Assault lasted about 20 minutes on the church’s grass verge after Desalagne dragged the drunk victim from a bench.
A witness recorded part of the attack, called police, and Desalagne was arrested at the scene.
Jurors deliberated for two hours at Harrow Crown Court, found him guilty, and will sentence him later this year.

1 of 1

Story summary

Eritrean Bruke Desalagne (33) was convicted of raping an elderly pensioner outside St John’s Church in Harrow.
Assault lasted about 20 minutes on the church’s grass verge after Desalagne dragged the drunk victim from a bench.
A witness recorded part of the attack, called police, and Desalagne was arrested at the scene.
Jurors deliberated for two hours at Harrow Crown Court, found him guilty, and will sentence him later this year.