Police are urging potential victims of a convicted rapist, described as “predatory,” to step forward after he contacted around 400 men. Jonathan Carl, aged 42, was handed a 17-year sentence in June following his conviction for rape and grievous bodily harm involving reckless HIV transmission at Snaresbrook Crown Court. The investigation was initiated when a man reported waking up to a sexual assault after socializing with Carl.
According to Detective Superintendent Lewis Basford, there is a considerable number of vulnerable individuals who may have fallen victim to rape. Carl, residing in Hornchurch, frequently met individuals at his home in east London and Essex regions, including areas like Havering, Redbridge, Barking, and Dagenham. It was revealed that between 2019 and 2023, Carl engaged with approximately 400 men through dating apps such as Grindr and Scruff, with 82 men already identified by the authorities, some of whom tested positive for HIV.
During a media briefing at New Scotland Yard, Mr. Basford characterized Carl as a predatory figure, emphasizing the existence of potential unreported rape victims. Acting Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Bishop highlighted the challenges in determining the exact number of victims due to Carl’s targeting of vulnerable individuals, including those uncertain about their sexual orientation or inexperienced in intimate relationships. Carl, known for his prolific and self-serving sexual behavior, was found guilty of rape and grievous bodily harm due to reckless HIV transmission, leading to a 15-year sexual prevention order mandating disclosure of his HIV status and notification to authorities of any new sexual partners.