A convicted rapist who subjected a woman to a prolonged and violent sexual assault has absconded from the United Kingdom following a serious administrative failure at a London prison. Bernadin Dedic, 48, a businessman formerly residing in Ealing, west London, was convicted in his absence on nine charges including multiple counts of rape and sexual assault.
Details of the Attack
The court heard that Dedic, under the influence of four bottles of red wine and cocaine, lured a woman to his basement after she declined his offer of casual sex. He threatened her with a kitchen knife, cut off her clothing, and subjected her to a series of rapes and sexual assaults that lasted several hours. Prosecutor Simon Sanford stated that Dedic told the victim he would kill her and then himself, leaving her terrified and compliant.
Prison Release Error
In February, a court official mistakenly recorded that Dedic had been granted bail, leading to his erroneous release from HMP Wormwood Scrubs. Within hours, he used his Bosnian passport to board the Eurostar and flee to Bosnia. His UK passport had been seized by police during the investigation. The error prompted an investigation by HM Courts and Tribunals Service, which acknowledged the distress caused and pledged to prevent recurrence.
Attempts to Avoid Justice
Dedic offered multiple excuses for not returning to face trial, including claims of a heart attack and a skiing accident. Judge Hannah Duncan expressed skepticism, noting that medical tests showed normal heart function and that he sought help only after reporting chest pain. The trial proceeded without him, and a jury convicted him on all counts. If he fails to return for sentencing, UK authorities are expected to seek extradition.
Court and Public Reaction
Judge Martin Edmunds KC described the release error as extremely rare and assured that a full investigation would be conducted. The case has highlighted systemic issues within the justice system. The victim, who endured a harrowing ordeal, now awaits justice as Dedic remains at large.
