Zhenhao Zou, a 28-year-old former PhD student at University College London, has been found guilty of one the most atrocious crimes imaginable. In summary, he raped 10 women over two continents. His offences stretch from 2019 through to 2024, with three victims in the UK capital and seven in China. After his conviction, over 60 more victims exhibited extraordinary courage by coming forward. This has set off an ongoing investigation which could result in further legal action against Zou.
Growing up Zou was very privileged, coming from a very wealthy family in China. He went on to earn a master’s and then a PhD in engineering at University College London. Yet his outward charm and apparent academic success masked the horrifying truth about what he was doing. At trial, Zou had the gall to testify that he was dating five women per month. At least among the general public, this shocking revelation has led to grave doubts about his character and behavior.
His crimes are awfully aggravated as he had filmed a number of the rapes. The stunning video evidence was instrumental in gaining his convictions. Photos provided by law enforcement Zou administered drugs to many of his victims, rendering them unconscious or incapacitated. This dastardly act didn’t stop there, his crimes escalated.
Most of Zou’s victims had something in common, with the majority being women of Chinese descent, including university students and recent graduates. They come from everybody’s backyard—from North America to South America, to East and West Europe. This new international dimension of his crimes has provided unique insight into the patterns of abuse and exploitation he used.
In January 2024, law enforcement arrested Zou, and he was later tried, convicted, and sentenced to life in prison. Focusing on extreme environments, extreme climates They’re now moving his case over to the Metropolitan Police’s complex casework unit. This specialized unit focuses on the most complex, high-profile or complex investigations.
Additional victims continue to step forward. In one month since the appeal, an additional 23 women have come forward to police after being contacted by Zou, which has led to fears about just how far Zou’s reach extends.
“This particular one seems to be stacking up in exactly the way we were concerned that it would. It tells you something that 23 victims have come forward in a month since we did the appeal. That’s quite a strike rate.” – Kevin Southworth
Yet the shadow of further trials hangs heavy over Zou. Their legal team has been working tirelessly to make the case against him stronger as more victims continue to step forward.
“The potential for a second or even third trial is there. We’re still now working to build a case.” – Kevin Southworth
Zou is scheduled to be sentenced on June 19, 2024. His actions should result in a far-reaching prison sentence for his repugnant crimes. The continuing developments in this case highlight the complexities of sexual violence cases and the importance of supporting victims who wish to come forward.