Mohamed Iidow, 35, has been convicted of the rape and manslaughter of Natalie Shotter, a 37-year-old NHS worker, who was attacked while unconscious on a park bench in Southall, west London. The verdict was delivered at the Old Bailey following a trial that revealed the disturbing details surrounding Shotter’s tragic death.
Details of the Attack
Natalie Shotter was discovered dead on July 17, 2021, after a night out with friends. Prosecutor Alison Morgan KC outlined how Iidow assaulted Shotter while she lay unconscious, leading to her death from a heart attack believed to have been triggered by the assault.
CCTV footage played during the trial depicted Shotter earlier that evening, enjoying herself outside a shop. However, hours later, she was found in a vulnerable state on the bench, having consumed alcohol. Morgan described Shotter as “vulnerable,” noting her struggles with mental health and alcohol issues.
Iidow’s Defense
During the trial, Iidow pleaded not guilty and did not testify. He claimed in police interviews that Shotter had offered him sexual services, attempting to portray the encounter as consensual. However, evidence presented contradicted his claims, showing that Shotter was unconscious throughout the assault.
Morgan emphasized that Iidow was seen on CCTV moving Shotter’s body into various positions as he attacked her, asserting that he was clearly seeking out a vulnerable victim that night.
Aftermath and Discovery
Following the assault, Iidow left the park, stopping at a Shell garage to buy cat food and mouthwash before returning home. Ms. Shotter’s body was discovered by a passerby in the early hours of the morning, prompting a police investigation that ultimately identified Iidow through DNA evidence.
The prosecution firmly established that Shotter was alive during the assault, with her death resulting directly from Iidow’s actions. Morgan rejected any suggestion that she was dead prior to the assault, reinforcing that Iidow was aware of her state throughout.
A Mother’s Fight for Justice
The emotional toll of the trial was evident, especially for Ms. Shotter’s mother, Dr. Cas Shotter Weetman. She has been a passionate advocate for justice, describing her daughter as a “feisty little being” and a loving mother. “Nat doesn’t have a voice. I’m her voice. I’m not stopping my fight for justice,” she stated.
Concerns About Repeat Offenders
Jurors were not made aware of Iidow’s prior convictions, which included crimes involving online child sex and grooming. This lack of information sparked questions about how the legal system handles repeat criminals and safeguards the weak.
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, who oversaw the inquiry, called Iidow’s behavior “shocking and disturbing.” “That night, this man drove to the park and exploited a vulnerable woman who should have been safe,” he said, underscoring the need for responsibility.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
Iidow has been placed under remand in detention until sentence on December 13 in response to the guilty judgment. The trial, which involved a great deal of work to piece together the circumstances behind Ms. Shotter’s unfortunate death, was intricate and emotionally taxing.
37-y-old Natalie Shotter died after being repeatedly raped by stranger on park bench in London.
Mohamed Iidow is on trial accused of rape & manslaughter after finding her unconscious.
Shotter died of a heart attack caused by repeated rape, prosecutor Alison Morgan told jurors. pic.twitter.com/5tJP1yVPaz
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) October 10, 2024In addition to offering her sympathies to Ms. Shotter’s family, Kirsty O’Connor of the Crown Prosecution Service reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to pursuing justice for victims of sexual assault. O’Connor said, “The victim lost her life as a result of this heinous attack.”
The conviction of Mohamed Iidow serves as a painful reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by individuals, particularly women, in society. It underscores the urgent need for advocacy against sexual violence and for protective measures in public spaces. As the community mourns Ms. Shotter’s loss, her family’s fight for justice continues, aiming to honor her memory and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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