FLORIN Griu has been found guilty of the attempted rape and sexual assault of a woman in Weston super Mare.

The 29-year-old, of Orchard Street, Weston, was found guilty by a jury at Bristol Crown Court on Thursday (April 4), after an incident in the town centre on April 21 last year.

The jury heard how Griu approached the victim and attempted to rape her before the victim cried out, causing him to flee the scene.

In a personal statement, the victim said: “I would describe myself as a bubbly person and like to think that I get on with most people.

“After this incident, I became totally withdrawn. I felt embarrassed that this had happened to me.

“I see his face everywhere I go and look at men, thinking it is him. I wake up in the night crying having dreamed about it.

“I try to black out thinking about this man and what he did to me that night. I never want to be near him again.

“I hope he is punished for what he has done to me. If it happened to me right in front of a camera, it could happen to anyone else.”

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Detectives investigating the case worked with colleagues at North Somerset Council to carry out extensive CCTV searches.

As a result, they were able to track Griu’s movements as he left his home address, committed the offence and then returned home.

He was identified and arrested on April 25 and charged the following day.

Speaking after the verdict, Detective Inspector Claire Millington, said: “This is a horrific offence against a vulnerable victim who I cannot praise enough for having the strength and courage to come forward.

“Florin Griu chose to target the victim, saw an opportunity to meet his own depraved needs and showed no care or concern for the impact his actions would have.

“Griu has continually denied responsibility for his actions and it is the tireless work of the investigating officer, DC Venetia Kelly, and the support and bravery shown by the victim which has resulted in today’s conviction.

“CCTV played a vital role in this investigation and allowed us to track Griu’s movements, identify him and bring him before the courts and I would like to thank our colleagues at North Somerset Council and businesses in the community for their support throughout this investigation.”

Griu has been remanded into custody and will appear at Bristol Crown Court for sentencing on Friday, May 31.

Avon & Somerset Police’s Operation Bluestone – a dedicated team investigating rape and serious sexual offence cases – is committed to supporting victims and investigating offences, no matter how long ago they took place.

Victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent, can self-refer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7 365 days a year. Visit their website at www.thebridgecanhelp.org.uk or call 0117 342 6999.

You can also visit www.thisisnotanexcuse.org for details of charities and organisations who are experts in supporting victims.