The assault took place on the 2nd of April at around 6am on Short Lane in Staines as the victim returned from a night out, and involved Melnyk following the victim after they got off the same bus, grabbing her by the arm and attempting to pull her trousers down. The victim then fell over and Melynk fell on top of her, after which he sexually assaulted her.
The victim, who was only 18-years-old at the time, managed to fight him off and shout for help, before seeking assistance from a nearby taxi driver who rang the police. Melynk then fled the scene.
Melynk was identified as the perpetrator after officers trawled through the CCTV on the bus and matched him to the suspect description.
By cross-referencing the oyster card used on the bus, Melynk was successfully identified as the user.
Upon searching his home address, officers found clothing matching the ones in the CCTV, as well as a pair of distinctive jeans with mud stains on the knees.
He was subsequently picked out as the perpetrator in an ID parade by the victim, before being charged with the offences and remanded in custody.
Investigating Officer DC Katherine Peters, said; “This was a complex investigation that involved many different lines of enquiries including forensics, intel, witness testimonies and CCTV.
“The survivor was extremely brave and displayed enormous resilience throughout the investigation and court proceedings. Thanks to her, a dangerous man is now off the streets and in prison where he belongs.
“If you have been the victim of sexual assault, we would urge you to report it to us; we will listen to you and will do everything we can to find and bring the perpetrator to justice.”
