EDMAS MILTO

A man responsible for stalking a woman before carrying out a severe sexual assault in a Chatham alleyway has been given a prison sentence.

The attacker, who attempted to rape the woman as she was walking alone, received a sentence of 10 years and eight months imprisonment.

Edmas Milto, 24, of Canterbury Street in Gillingham, followed the woman for nearly a mile before assaulting her in an alley in July 2018.

He pleaded guilty to charges of attempted rape and assault, and the sentencing took place at the same court on Friday, July 26.

The court was informed that, shortly after 2:50 am on July 24, last year, Milto grabbed the woman as she walked down Haig Avenue.

A lengthy and violent assault ensued, during which he attempted to commit rape.

The incident was recorded on CCTV footage, which enabled officers to trace Milto’s movements through Medway to near his residence.

After conducting thorough patrols in that vicinity, police detained Milto when he was spotted by an officer who recognized him from the CCTV images.

Detective Inspector Kaye Braybrook, leading the investigation, stated: "Milto subjected the victim to an extremely violent and degrading attack, demonstrating that he poses a serious threat to women.

The investigating team compiled a strong case with support from the victim, who displayed immense bravery in dealing with this life-altering assault.

He will now serve a lengthy prison term, during which he cannot harm the community further."