Chinese PhD student Zhenhao Zou was found guilty of drugging and raping ten women across England and China, with police warning that over 50 additional victims may exist. He recorded many attacks and claimed they were consensual. His sentencing is set for June 19, and a police appeal is made for more victims to come forward.
A Chinese PhD student, Zhenhao Zou, was convicted in a London court of drugging and raping ten women across England and China between 2019 and 2023. His conviction includes 11 counts of rape, with two offenses related to a single victim. Following a month-long trial at the Inner London Crown Court, jurors determined that Zou committed three assaults in London and seven in China, prompting police to estimate that he might have over 50 additional victims.
Zou, 28, recorded many of these assaults using hidden or handheld cameras, keeping footage as “souvenirs” along with a trophy box of his victims’ possessions. While he claimed the sexual interactions were consensual, the court found substantial evidence against him. His sentencing is scheduled for June 19.
Judge Rosina Cottage labeled Zou a “dangerous and predatory sexual offender,” indicating that his sentence would be significant. Zou faced additional charges, including voyeurism and possession of controlled substances, while being acquitted of some counts. He employed deceit to befriend victims on WeChat and dating applications before incapacitating them with drugs.
Metropolitan Police Commander Kevin Southworth commended the bravery of the women who testified against Zou and expressed concerns that he may have victimized many more. He acknowledged issues with interpreter services provided to victims during the trial, underscoring the necessity for better support for those who report such crimes.
Zou’s academic journey began in Belfast at Queen’s University before transferring to University College London for his master’s and subsequently his PhD in mechanical engineering. Dr. Michael Spence, President of UCL, offered condolences to the survivors, emphasizing the courage displayed by those who came forward to provide evidence in this case.
Zhenhao Zou’s conviction for the drugging and raping of ten women signifies a concerning breach of safety within academic settings. The case has prompted a police investigation indicating there may be many unidentified victims. Law enforcement continues to seek further information to hold Zou accountable for his predatory actions while acknowledging the need for improved support systems for victims of such heinous crimes.
Original Source: apnews.com
