Delivery Driver Jailed for Attempted Rape at South Croydon Travelodge
Rajenthiram Mithinraj, 34, of Bromley Road, Beckenham, has been locked up for six years after trying to rape a woman in a Travelodge car park in South Croydon.
Drunken Incident Ends in Horror
The shocking attack happened on October 11 last year. Mithinraj, a delivery driver, was drinking with friends in the hotel car park when the victim, heavily intoxicated, interacted with him. This sadly led to his attempted sexual assault.
The Travelodge receptionist had already warned police about the group’s rowdy behaviour, but officers couldn’t respond in time due to stretched resources.
CCTV Proves Guilt, Jury Convicts
Cameras caught Mithinraj trying to force himself on the vulnerable woman despite her obvious state. While his friend was cleared of rape charges, Mithinraj was found guilty by the jury.
Judge Clair Harden-Frost said, “The victim was incapable of consenting and Mithinraj knew exactly how vulnerable she was.”
Victim’s Life Shattered
During sentencing at Croydon Crown Court, the victim’s suffering was laid bare. She revealed profound psychological damage, fearing to be alone outside, and battling humiliation and suicidal thoughts. Her mental health has plummeted, destroying everyday joy.
Mithinraj’s lawyer tried to paint him as a previously law-abiding, religious man. But the judge was clear — the offence’s seriousness cannot be understated.
Six Years Behind Bars — No Return to Sri Lanka
Mithinraj, originally from Sri Lanka, was sentenced to six years in prison. The judge expressed hope he will not be sent back to his homeland due to ongoing unrest there.
This case highlights the brutal reality of sexual assaults and the need for justice to protect vulnerable victims and punish offenders harshly.
