Man pleads guilty to raping woman in Perry Barr as police thank victim for reporting the crime

Cornel Filipeche pleaded guilty to rape, robbery and causing grievous bodily harm at a hearing at Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday.

The 21-year-old, of Hawthorn Road, Birmingham, was arrested on January 21 after an investigation had been launched by West Midlands Police into reports of a woman being attacked and raped on Walsall Road in Perry Barr on January 18.

The investigation by West Midlands Police saw information sent by members of the public, detectives review CCTV footage and evidence provided by the victim and led to Filipeche being arrested and charged.

A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "A man has pleaded guilty to raping a woman in Perry Barr last month.

"In the early hours of January 18, we were called to Walsall Road in Perry Barr to reports a woman had been attacked and raped.

"An investigation was launched by West Midlands Police and we issued a CCTV appeal to identify the offender.

"We received a huge amount of information from the public and detectives worked around the clock, reviewing CCTV and speaking to witnesses.

"On January 21, Cornel Filipeche was arrested.

"Following a thorough investigation, including brave evidence from the woman, the 21-year-old was charged with rape, robbery and causing grievous bodily harm.

"Filipeche, of Hawthorn Road, pleaded guilty to all three charges last Thursday and was remanded ahead of sentencing on April 8.

"More information on how we can help you, and the organisations that can also help if you’re not ready to speak to us can be found on the West Midlands Police website."

Detective Inspector Emma Watson from the police Public Protection Unit said: “I want to thank the victim for her bravery in coming forward and reporting this to us. 

"Her actions may have saved other victims.

“West Midlands Police encourages anyone who has suffered abuse to come forward.

“You will be supported, and you will be believed.”