Man convicted of attempted rape and sexual assault – Reading

Following an investigation by Thames Valley Police, a man has been convicted of attempted rape and sexual assault by penetration following a trial at Reading Crown Court.

Sagar Gurung, aged 26, of Salisbury Road, Reading, was found guilty by a unanimous jury verdict of both offences yesterday (10/5).

In the early hours of 6 November 2022, Gurung approached a woman in Queens Walk, Reading, and attempted to rape her.

He also subjected the victim to a sexual assault in the attack, which occurred between 2.30am and 3am.

Gurung then left the area and a large manhunt was launched. He was arrested on 8 November 2022 as he was apparently preparing to leave the country.

He was charged the following day (9 November).

Investigating officer Detective Constable Natasha Black, based at Reading police station, said: “Gurung targeted and attacked his victim, who was on a night out in Reading, completely at random.

“The victim in this case has shown tremendous dignity and courage throughout the course of this investigation.

“She gave evidence in court against Gurung, choosing to do so without the provision of any special measures. This showed immense bravery, and her account has allowed us to bring Gurung to justice swiftly.

“Gurung claimed during his trial that he had been hallucinating during the time he attacked the victim, and minimised his actions, denying any sexual offences.

“However, he could not account for what CCTV footage clearly captured, and at no time did he take any responsibility for his actions.”

Gurung has been remanded in custody and will be sentenced on 8 August.

DC Black added: “This was an exceptional investigation, and our swift work allowed us to apprehend Gurung while he was actively preparing to leave the country.

“He was arrested at his home address, having packed bags and was loading them into a vehicle.

“He had booked a flight out of the UK for 10 November.

“Thankfully, stranger attacks such as this are exceptionally rare, but when they do occur, we will utilise all resources possible to track down, arrest and bring offenders to justice.

“This case demonstrates our commitment to tirelessly pursue offenders who seek to carry out sexual offences.

“I would like to thank the victim in this case for her continued support of this investigation, and I hope that this conviction will allow her to move forward with her life, knowing that we have brought her attacker to justice.”

KB

Sagar Gurung