A “wicked” predator has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the rape and killing of NHS worker Natalie Shotter in a West London park. The attack, which took place in July 2021, left the mother of three dead from a heart attack caused by repeated sexual assault while she was unconscious.
The perpetrator, 35-year-old Mohamed Iidow, was caught on CCTV committing the attack in Southall Park. Following a trial at the Old Bailey, he was found guilty of rape and manslaughter. On Friday, Judge Richard Marks KC sentenced him to life in prison, with a minimum term of 10 years and eight months.
Attack on an “Exceptionally Talented” Mother
The court heard how Iidow preyed on 37-year-old Natalie, a beloved NHS worker and former child stage star who once performed in Les Misérables. After a night out, Natalie was seen happily dancing before entering the park, where she passed out on a bench.
CCTV showed Iidow circling Natalie three times in a “predatory” manner before approaching her. The court was told Natalie was “deeply unconscious” as Iidow raped her repeatedly, moving her body into different positions during the assault.
After the attack, Iidow left the scene, stopping at a petrol station to buy cat food and mouthwash before returning home. Natalie’s lifeless body was discovered early the next morning by a passerby.
Judge Condemns “Wicked and Reckless” Attack
Judge Marks called the attack “utterly reckless,” stating that Iidow’s actions carried a “high risk” of causing serious harm. He also labeled Iidow a “dangerous offender,” referencing his previous conviction for attempting to groom young people online.
The judge acknowledged the unprecedented nature of the case, noting that there had never been a recorded instance of someone dying from oral rape.
Family Mourns a “Brilliant” and “Loving” Woman
Natalie’s mother, Dr. Cas Shotter Weetman, described her daughter as a “bundle of joy” and a dedicated NHS worker. As a child, Natalie secured a place at the prestigious BRIT School in Croydon, later becoming a mother and working for the British Heart Foundation before taking on a clinical administration role at her local hospital.
Dr. Shotter Weetman spoke of the devastation the attack caused her family. “Watching the CCTV of my daughter being raped was desperately sad,” she said in court. “No woman should have to fear sitting in a park. We are missing our beautiful girl.”
Natalie’s father, Andrew Shotter, shared memories of his “feisty” daughter performing in front of thousands of people. He described the horror of hearing about her final moments, saying, “In my head, I am screaming to her not to go into the park.”
Her partner, Anthony Wilson, expressed his grief, calling his new role as a single father “stretching in every aspect.”
CPS and Police Bring Justice
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) praised the courage of Natalie’s family throughout the trial. Prosecutor Kirsty O’Connor said, “Natalie was preyed upon by Mohamed Iidow, and his vile attack cost her life. The CPS is determined to deliver justice for victims of rape.”
She added, “The investigation was extremely complex, involving police and expert witnesses to uncover the events leading to Natalie’s death. We extend our deepest condolences to her family and children.”
A Warning for Safety and Accountability
This tragic case has highlighted the dangers posed by repeat offenders like Iidow and the need for greater safety measures in public spaces. As Natalie’s family mourns their devastating loss, the sentencing serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight to secure justice for victims of violent crimes.
