A rapist who attacked two women in separate incidents a year apart has been jailed.

Altin Bushati, 42, of Pennymead, Harlow, subjected the women to prolonged and violent attacks, forcing them to have sex with him.

Both assaults took place at addresses in Harlow, the first in July 2016 and the second 12 months later.

He was arrested on July 7, 2017.

Following an extensive and thorough investigation he was charged in September 2019 and, despite denying the charges, was found guilty on Thursday, February 13.

Bushati was found guilty of four counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault.

He was jailed for a total of 13 years and will be deported to his native Albania following the conclusion of his sentence.

Investigating officer Temporary Detective Sergeant Ben Rushmere said: “Altin Bushati is a violent, dangerous sexual predator.

“The ordeal he subjected his victims to is unimaginable.

“The attacks have had a lasting psychological impact on his victims and I want to praise them for the courage they have shown throughout the investigation and the trial.”