DEAN MORAN FROM CROYDON AND NEW ADDINGTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON SCHOOLGIRL IN SOUTH CROYDON

In December 2013, a disturbing incident unfolded in South Croydon involving a 15-year-old girl who was targeted by a predatory sex attacker while on her way to school. The attacker, later identified as Dean Moran, 27, of Cunningham House, Montacute Road, New Addington, committed a heinous assault that shocked the local community and drew significant attention from law enforcement authorities.

On the morning of June 27, Moran approached the young girl as she was walking along Conker Alley, a pathway that connects Farnborough Avenue in Selsdon with Gravel Hill in Addington. The attack occurred at approximately 7:15 am, a time when many students are on their way to school. Moran suddenly grabbed the girl around her face, covering her mouth to prevent her from screaming, and threatened to break her neck if she made any noise. Without warning, he dragged her into nearby woodland, where he attempted to carry out a sexual assault.

The girl, despite the terrifying ordeal, managed to escape when Moran paused during the attack. She quickly made her way to her school and reported the incident to authorities. During her statement to police, she was able to identify Moran by name, as he had told her his name during the attack. This crucial piece of information led to his swift arrest later that day at his residence. Moran initially denied involvement, but the evidence against him was compelling.

Later, during the trial at Croydon Crown Court, the victim provided her testimony via video-link, and Moran was visually identified by her as the attacker. The court proceedings revealed the full extent of the trauma inflicted upon her, and on October 25, a jury found Moran guilty of attempted rape. The conviction marked a significant step in delivering justice for the young girl and her family.

Detective Constable Heather Wilders, from the Metropolitan Police’s sexual offences, exploitation, and child abuse command, praised the victim’s bravery in giving evidence. She emphasized the impact of the attack, describing it as a “horrendous experience” that left the girl traumatised. Wilders expressed satisfaction that Moran was held accountable, stating, “This was a horrendous experience for the victim who was left traumatised by Moran’s actions. We are pleased that a conviction has now been secured against Moran, who has subjected a 15-year-old girl to a terrifying ordeal on her way to school.”

Wilders also highlighted Moran’s attempt to deny responsibility, noting, “Moran attempted to lie his way out of trouble, rather than face up to his appalling behaviour, and it is satisfying that he will now have to face the consequences.” She praised the victim’s courage, adding, “The victim has shown a huge amount of bravery in helping to put this dangerous man in prison. She can now look to regain her confidence and feel safe again knowing that he will be off the streets for a long time.”

In addition to his seven-year prison sentence, Moran was handed a three-year licence extension, a measure reserved for the most dangerous violent offenders. This extension means he could be recalled to prison if he reoffends in the future. Detective Inspector Keith Ward, speaking after the sentencing, reassured the community by stating, “Thankfully stranger attacks such as this are rare. I hope today’s sentence will reassure the local community, and particularly the young victim, that the man responsible has been brought swiftly to justice and will now serve a substantial prison sentence.”