A man has been sentenced to 28 years in prison for abusing two young children over a period of 15 years, following an extensive investigation by detectives from the Metropolitan Police.
Anthony Adewale Sobogun, 61, residing on Thistlewood Crescent in Croydon, received his sentence at the Inner London Crown Court on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
He was found guilty of 17 historical sexual abuse offenses involving two minors. The charges included multiple instances of sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13, as well as the rape of a child.
Details of the Abuse
Sobogun’s abusive actions took place during the 1990s and early 2000s, with his victims being individuals he knew personally.
One of the victim-survivors recounted a harrowing experience where Sobogun accompanied her to an abortion clinic after she became pregnant with his child. Following this revelation, investigators traced medical records confirming the procedure and reviewed counseling notes that detailed the ongoing cycle of abuse she endured.
On July 2, 2025, Sobogun was arrested in the early hours of the morning. He faced charges and was ultimately convicted after a thorough investigation that prioritized the needs and voices of the victim-survivors, allowing them to be heard in court.
Law Enforcement Response
“The bravery of the victims in coming forward is what brought Sobogun to justice. It’s as a result of their courage in working with officers that this dangerous man has been jailed,”
stated Detective Constable Charlotte Lockyer, who led the investigation. She emphasized that the victims‘ courage in confronting their abuser has prevented Sobogun from inflicting further harm on society.
“Today’s result shows that no matter when the abuse occurred, justice can still be secured,”
Lockyer added.
Victim Voices
The victims of Sobogun’s crimes have bravely shared their thoughts on the situation:
“What has come to light is deeply distressing, but sadly, it is not an isolated situation. Abuse like this exists in many communities, often hidden by family, fear, silence, or stigma,”
they stated. They emphasized the importance of coming forward, stating,
“It is never too late to come forward. If you have experienced abuse, your voice matters, and you deserve to be heard, supported, and protected.”
They also highlighted a critical point:
“People can present well, appear trustworthy, and still cause harm behind closed doors. This is why it is so important to look beyond appearances, to listen carefully, and to take concerns seriously.”
The victims expressed gratitude towards the Metropolitan Police, particularly Detective Constable Charlotte Lockyer, prosecutor Mr. William Goss, and the Crown Prosecution Service for their professionalism and dedication in handling the case.
Commitment to Victim Support
The Metropolitan Police is dedicated to enhancing the experiences of victim-survivors throughout the investigative process. In this case, officers collaborated closely with the victims to gather evidence through video recorded interviews (VRIs). These interviews are conducted in specially designed suites that provide a safer and more sensitive environment for both adults and children, ultimately strengthening investigations while ensuring victims feel supported and heard.
Recently, the Met has initiated a £10 million upgrade program for VRI suites to improve the quality and integrity of evidence. This initiative combines advanced digital technology with a trauma-informed, victim-centered approach.
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