Hertfordshire police have released a video of the moment that a 'monstrous' predator - who has now been jailed for kidnap and indecent assault - was arrested.
Yesterday (Tuesday, December 19) Alec Housden was handed a 16-year jail sentence following offences that took place in Harpenden over 20 years ago.
With his actions described as "monstrous" by Judge Francis Sheridan, Housden was initially arrested on March 22, 2023, following a DNA match.
Hertfordshire Constabulary have now released a video showing the arrest, and interviews with Housden.
Detective Inspector Justine Jenkins said: "We knew the same man was responsible for both these sexual assaults through DNA evidence but we needed to find him, and frustratingly he was not on the national database.
"As part of the police investigation, we found evidence linking Housden to the sexual assaults.
SUGGESTED READING
-
Alec Housden jailed for Harpenden kidnap and sexual assaults
-
Harpenden: Arrest made in connection with historic sexual assaults
“These women, who are now aged in their 30s, went through an unimaginable experience which has blighted their lives and they have never had closure on their horrific ordeal, so we were determined, despite the time that had passed, to find the man responsible.
“I’m sure Housden thought he’d got away with it.
"These two brave women are pleased that he has finally been sentenced for his crimes.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here