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Met Police Seek Up to 318 Men After Convicted Rapist’s Case Triggers HIV Testing Appeal

Police cite digital evidence showing Jonathan Carl used dating apps to target men across east London.

Overview

  • Detectives issued a public appeal for up to 318 men to come forward for confidential HIV testing, advice and support.
  • Officers have identified and spoken to 82 men so far, with police saying some of those individuals have tested positive for HIV.
  • Digital forensics show roughly 400 contacts linked to Carl between 2019 and 2023 via Grindr and Scruff, guiding efforts to trace further partners.
  • Police say Carl frequently met men at his home above a fish and chip shop on Station Lane in Hornchurch, with contacts concentrated in east London and Essex.
  • Carl, 42, is serving 17 years for rape and reckless transmission of HIV and is subject to a 15-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order requiring partner notification and disclosure if not taking medication.