- ITV Report
Sexual predator who tried to rape woman on a date is jailed
A sexual predator who tried to rape a woman he met through a dating website has been jailed for more than nine years.
Miles Conlon and the victim met online in July 2014 and exchanged messages before arranging to meet in Harlow the following day.
Conlon, who told her his name was Mark, drove her to Harlow Town Park, where he sexually assaulted and tried to rape the woman.
She managed to push him away and make her way home, where she raised the alarm and police were contacted.
Conlon, now 38, handed himself in at Harlow Police Station the following month.
Following a thorough investigation, he was charged in June 2016 with attempted rape and assault by penetration.
He denied the charges and was due to stand trial in June last year, but failed to appear at court.
He was arrested three weeks later and claimed he had been kidnapped and raped. Following an investigation into his allegations by Kent Police, he was charged with perverting the course of justice.
Conlon, of Truro Road, Gravesend, admitted attempted rape, assault by penetration and perverting the course of justice at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday, April 27.
He was sentenced to nine years and nine months in prison.
Police fear Conlon may have preyed on other women too.
The victim said she suffered anxiety attacks after the incident and was reluctant to leave the house.
Anyone affected should contact 101. Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org