A disturbing case unfolded in court as it was revealed that a man allegedly kidnapped a nine-year-old girl outside Harrods in central London before drugging and sexually assaulting her. The incident, described as “every parent’s worst nightmare,” took place on April 22 last year, Isleworth Crown Court was told.
Robert Prussak, 57, who is of no fixed address, approached the lost girl after she became separated from her family during a visit from France. The court heard that Prussak engaged the girl outside the luxury department store, offering her assistance when she was in distress. He then reportedly led her back to his flat, where the horrific events unfolded.
The prosecution detailed how Prussak asked the girl several questions, including about her parents’ contact information, before taking her to his apartment. There, he gave her a drink which she found unpleasant, and proceeded to sexually assault her in a nearby park. The girl, feeling unwell, requested to be taken to the emergency services, which Prussak obliged.
Meanwhile, the girl’s family raised the alarm at Harrods, where they had last seen her. Staff assisted in the search, while CCTV footage was examined to trace her movements. An alert police officer eventually spotted Prussak and the girl near the Israeli embassy and intervened, leading to Prussak’s arrest on suspicion of kidnapping.
Following the incident, the girl was taken to a hospital, where it was discovered that she had been exposed to a substance containing diphenhydramine, a common antihistamine known to cause drowsiness. Prussak faces multiple charges including sexual assault of a child under 13, kidnapping, and administering a substance with harmful intent.
As the trial progresses, the harrowing details of this case continue to unfold in court, shedding light on the dangers faced by young children and the importance of vigilance in crowded public spaces. The family’s ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the need for heightened awareness and safety measures to protect vulnerable individuals from such appalling crimes.