Victim describes man who posed as paramedic and committed sexual offenses as a “danger to society”

A woman who was subjected to rape by an individual who falsely claimed to be a paramedic stated that he posed a “danger to society” and presented a “high risk” to the public. Jamie Kadolski, 24, was convicted at Norwich Crown Court for the rape and sexual assault of women he encountered through the online dating platform Tinder. In an exclusive interview with the BBC, one of the victims advocated for new legislation, akin to regulations for police officers, to explicitly criminalize the act of impersonating a paramedic. Law enforcement characterized Kadolski, residing at Ladysmith Road, Norwich, as “predatory and remorseless.” His sentencing is scheduled for 7 February. This woman, whose identity is legally safeguarded, was among Kadolski’s three victims. She informed the BBC that their initial encounter was via a dating website, where she initially perceived him as humorous. Following a month of online communication, they met in person, and he committed rape and sexual assault against her during their brief relationship. “There is nothing I can do to stop a fully grown man,” she stated. “It is a battle of what is worse, being killed or this happening.” She expressed feelings of helplessness, describing herself as feeling like she was “just a bag of meat to him.” The victim recounted being “really outgoing” prior to the rape, but now experiences a sense of seclusion. Kadolski was convicted in November for nine sexual offenses perpetrated across an 18-month timeframe. The woman explained her choice to speak publicly at this time, emphasizing the importance of public awareness regarding his actions due to the “high risk” he poses and his status as a “danger to society.” She characterized her decision to report the events to the police as a “good decision” and encouraged other victims to report similar incidents to the authorities. “If you’re in that place and you are willing and mentally ready [to] go to the police about it and discuss it, then absolutely do – you won’t regret it.” “You are not alone,” she added. Testimony during the trial revealed that the former East of England Ambulance Service call handler had affixed stickers to his work identification card to conceal his less senior position. Kadolski informed the woman he raped that he was a paramedic, and she stated that he had displayed images of himself in a paramedic’s uniform on his online dating profile. “I remember his photos in paramedic gear… you wouldn’t assume that [emergency workers] would do anything bad,” she commented. The East of England Ambulance Service discontinued the use of green uniforms for non-clinical personnel earlier this year; these staff now wear black uniforms. The Health Professions Order 2001 stipulates that it is an offense for an individual to employ a health title to which they lack entitlement, including that of paramedic. Nevertheless, the victim has advocated for new legislation, analogous to provisions for police officers, to explicitly prevent individuals from impersonating paramedics. The Department of Health declined to comment on the suggested legal amendment. Kadolski, who was also employed at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, is scheduled for sentencing next year. The woman expressed immense relief upon his conviction and conveyed pride in the other women who bravely came forward. Brook, an organization providing guidance on sexual health and relationships, has issued recommendations for ensuring safety during online dating. Nick Dunne, the charity’s head of digital safety, stated that anyone could fall victim to an individual intent on causing harm. “It’s crucial to remember the perpetrator is always to blame for sexual violence.” For individuals who have experienced sexual abuse or violence, information regarding assistance and support can be found at bbc.co.uk/actionline. Updates on Norfolk news are accessible via BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.