A rapist has been jailed after his DNA was found on a teddy bear he touched during the attack.

Bardhyl Mustafaj, 64, of Coupland Place in Greenwich, had visited his victim at her home near Hampstead Heath to fix a lightbulb. 

The victim, aged in her 50s, subsequently reported Mustafaj to the police and he was charged with four counts of rape dating to May 2019.

A crucial piece of evidence found by police was the presence of the 64-year-old’s DNA on a teddy bear his victim used to push him off her when he tried to kiss her.

Mustafaj pleaded not guilty but was convicted by a jury on December 1 last year at Wood Green Crown Court.

He was jailed for eight years after a hearing on Friday (January 19).

Investigating Detective Constable Sam Orchard said: “I would firstly like to commend the victim for her bravery in reporting this crime so quickly; she went through the most horrendous ordeal.

"This allowed officers to promptly get to work, forensically analysing the crime scene, gathering a range of DNA evidence, interviewing potential witnesses and locating the suspect.

“Their relentless attention to detail meant that no stone was left unturned.”

They added: “Mustafaj is now behind bars for a considerable time and will not be able to prey on other vulnerable women.

“We would encourage any victims of sexual assault to come forward to the police. You will be listened to and we will work hard to support you while we investigate what has happened.”