A sex attacker who escaped from court minutes before a hearing was due to start has finally admitted two offences.

Christopher Adjei, 29, had been charged with the attempted rape of a Canterbury woman, in her early 20s, who had been attacked in the early hours of June 14 last year.

But while the case was being heard at Canterbury Crown Court last year, Adjei, of Riverdale Road, Ramsgate fled, sparking a police manhunt.

After being recaptured, he was brought back to court and on the morning his trial was due to start, pleaded guilty to lesser charges of battery and committing an assault with intent to commit a sexual offence.

The attempted rape charge was left on the file.

Now Judge James O’Mahony has remanded him in custody for four weeks for the preparation of reports prior to sentencing.

He told him: “You are in a serious position and the court will take into account what is said on your behalf.

“But these are serious matters and you must expect a significant custodial sentence.”

The victim had been walking along Church Lane, Canterbury at around 4am when she became aware of a man behind her.

Police revealed that she turned and saw Adjei, who was dressed in a red t-shirt. She continued walking as he called to her before grabbing her in a bear-hug action.

As she screamed for him to let go, he tried to cover her mouth with his hand and she ended up on the ground.

It was only when the terrified victim asked what he wanted, Adjei’s behaviour changed and he stood up and apologised for his actions.

The victim was able to flee the scene and raise the alarm.

Forensic testing also found Adjei’s DNA on the victim’s coat and detectives were able to piece together Adjei’s whereabouts on that night based on his bank details and a train ticket for Canterbury.

Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Daniel Aylett, of the Sexual Offences Investigation Team, said: "There was clear evidence pinpointing Adjei to the scene.

"Officers worked hard to uncover that evidence and it shows that even if the suspect refuses to co-operate, the truth will come out.

"I’d like to commend the victim for her bravery in reporting the crime and if anyone else ever finds themselves in a similar situation, that they will feel reassured we will investigate their claims."

Adjei is expected to be sentenced during the week commencing April 13.

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