Dean Powell, of Gews Corner jailed for attempted rape in London, England

A 33-year-old video games tester who worked for industry giants Sega UK has been sentenced after attacking a woman at a Christmas party in the West End.

Dean Powell, of Gews Corner, Cheshunt, E1, who tested games such as Sonic the Hedgehog, pleaded guilty to attempted rape and sexual assault by penetration at Southwark Crown Court.

He was sentenced on Thursday 5 August to two years for attempted rape and six months for sexual assault to run concurrently. Powell was also placed on the sex offenders’ register for ten years. A third charge of sexual assault will lie on file.

The offences took place at approx. 02:00hrs on 18 December 2009, after Powell and the victim both left a party at the Hard Rock Cafe, W2. Powell was seen by a member of staff trying to have sex with the 34-year-old outside the premises.

The staff member took three photos on his mobile phone of Powell, who also sexually assaulted his victim, and as he was walking away clearly heard the woman say: "I don’t want to do that."

Later the victim recalled that she had encountered Powell at the cloakroom, and had felt she could trust him as he told her "I will look after you", which she took to mean he would escort her home safely.

Staff called police who subsequently arrested Powell.

Detective Constable James Emeny, who led the investigation for the MPS’ Sapphire Unit, said: "Thanks to the intervention of witnesses to this crime, this man has been brought to justice. I would like to thank staff at the Hard Rock café who played a vital role in assisting this investigation.

"This sentencing is a message to those who commit these crimes that these will be dealt with robustly."