A Romanian migrant, Emil Burlacu, 35, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison in the United Kingdom after being found guilty of raping and sexually assaulting an 11-year-old girl. The case, heard in a London court, revealed that Burlacu silenced the victim during the assaults and repeatedly threatened her not to speak out.
According to police reports, the victim described feeling terrified and powerless during the repeated attacks. “He made me keep quiet,” she told officers, explaining that Burlacu used threats to ensure she remained silent.
Prosecutor Corinne Bramwell said the young girl has been left “traumatised for the rest of her life,” highlighting the severe emotional impact of the abuse. Burlacu, who moved to Britain from Romania in 2008, was convicted on several counts, including two counts of rape, assaulting a girl under 13 by penetration, sexual assault, and causing a child to engage in sexual activity.
The court also imposed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, preventing Burlacu from contacting minors or engaging in activities that could endanger children in the future.
Defence lawyer Hannah Thomas stated that Burlacu had previously maintained steady employment and had no prior criminal record. However, the judge emphasized the seriousness of his crimes, ruling that the lengthy prison sentence was necessary to protect the public and deliver justice for the victim.
The case underscores the UK’s firm stance on child protection and its zero-tolerance approach toward sexual violence. Authorities continue to urge victims of abuse to seek help and report any form of sexual misconduct.
Anyone affected by sexual violence can reach out to Rape Crisis England & Wales or call their National Helpline at 0808 802 9999 for confidential support and assistance.