London Student Zhenhao Zou Found Guilty of Multiple Rape Counts
Zhenhao Zou, a 28-year-old Chinese national and PhD student at University College London, has been convicted of drugging and raping 10 women. The lead detective on the case described him as potentially one of the most prolific sexual predators in the country. Zou was arrested in January 2024 at his London flat and faces serious charges, including filming nine of the assaults for his own keepsake and maintaining a box of victims’ belongings as trophies. Judge Rosina Cottage labeled him as a “dangerous and predatory sexual offender,” hinting at a lengthy prison sentence upon his sentencing date of June 19.
The Shocking Details Unveiled in Court
During the trial at Inner London Crown Court, it was revealed that Zou had attacked two identified women and eight others who remain unidentified. Shockingly, Zou filmed nine of the assaults, indicating a disturbing pattern of behavior. The jury heard that Zou kept videos of himself engaging in sexual acts with unconscious and semi-conscious women as souvenirs. These crimes spanned from 2019 to 2024, with seven of the rapes occurring during the pandemic in China. Despite evidence of these attacks captured on video, the victims remain unknown.
The Metropolitan Police’s Cdr Kevin Southworth expressed urgency in locating potential victims, believing there could be up to 50 more individuals affected by Zou’s crimes. The insidious nature of these offenses implies that many victims might not even be aware of what happened to them. The emotional toll of the case was evident in court, where jurors had to watch footage of the assaults, prompting regular breaks due to the distressing content.
Unveiling the Disturbing Truth
Zou’s arrest shed light on his lavish lifestyle, supported by his wealthy family. He could afford luxuries like a Rolex watch, designer clothes, and cosmetic procedures, including a hair transplant and facial surgery. Paying a staggering £4,000 per month in rent for his upscale flat, Zou seemed to lead a life of privilege and excess. Additionally, he kept items belonging to his victims, such as jewelry and clothing, as grim reminders of his crimes.
The Crown Prosecution Service and the Met Police have launched an appeal to identify other possible victims of Zou. With his conviction on charges ranging from rape to voyeurism and possession of extreme pornographic images, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. Cdr Southworth emphasized the importance of women who had encounters with Zou to speak up, highlighting the courage of those who have already come forward.
Saira Pike from the Crown Prosecution Service commended the bravery of the women who shared their stories, noting that their testimonies played a vital role in securing Zou’s conviction. The jury found Zou guilty on multiple counts, including 11 rapes, three charges of voyeurism, and possession of extreme pornographic images. Despite being cleared of certain charges, Zou’s guilt in committing heinous crimes is undeniable.
In a case that has shaken the community and raised questions about safety and justice, Zhenhao Zou’s conviction serves as a stark reminder of the importance of speaking out against abuse and holding perpetrators accountable. As the legal proceedings continue and the impact of his actions reverberates, the hope is that justice will be served, and the voices of the victims will be heard loud and clear.
