A sexual predator from Norfolk who raped a lone woman in Luton almost four decades ago has been jailed after a DNA match. 

Michael Elksnis, 69, from Great Yarmouth, approached a woman in the early hours of August 20, 1981, and followed her, repeatedly asking her to go home with him.

When she refused he offered to help, leading her up an alleyway on the pretence he was taking her to the taxi rank but then raped her.

He was jailed for five years at Luton Crown Court and placed on the sex offenders’ register after being found guilty of rape.

At the time, the victim reported the incident to the police and forensic samples were recovered.

Michael Elksnis, 69, from Great YarmouthMichael Elksnis, 69, from Great Yarmouth (Image: Newsquest)

As part of an ongoing operation to tackle historic rape and sexual assaults, the evidence was re-examined and a match was found with Elksnis’ DNA.

Detective Sergeant Jo Goodson, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: “This was a predatory attack by a man who saw an opportunity to prey on a lone woman.

“Elksnis was able to continue living his life for years while his victim suffered from the lasting effects of being a victim of rape.”

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He said specialist detectives are continuing to utilise scientific advancements and developments in forensic science to review historic cases such as this and ensure sexual predators are brought to justice.

“No one is above the law, and hopefully cases like this should demonstrate that we leave no stone unturned when it comes to relentlessly pursuing perpetrators – no matter how long ago the crime took place,” he added.

“I commend the victim for her bravery throughout the case, and having to relive this four decades later.”

Anyone who has experienced sexual abuse can contact Norfolk Constabulary on 999 in an emergency or 101 for non-emergency calls. If you need further support services visit help pages.