Daniel Rowe

Daniel Rowe, a 35-year-old man formerly residing in Tiverton and Exeter, Devon, was sentenced to 23 years' imprisonment at Exeter Crown Court on Friday, 16 January 2025, following his conviction on three counts of rape. The case, prosecuted by Devon and Cornwall Police, centred on multiple sexual assaults committed against a female victim, who disclosed the offences to officers during the investigation.

During the trial, the court heard harrowing testimony from the victim, who described being subjected to repeated rapes by Rowe. She expressed profound fear of her attacker, stating that she was terrified he would harm her if she resisted. Evidence presented included messages exchanged between the victim and Rowe, in which he apologised following one of the attacks, providing crucial corroboration of the non-consensual nature of the encounters. Despite Rowe's claims in police interviews that all sexual activity was consensual, a jury found him guilty on all counts after a thorough examination of the evidence.

Post-reporting, Rowe escalated his coercive behaviour by contacting the victim and pressuring her to retract her statement. He issued direct threats, warning that he would enlist others to terrorise her if she proceeded with the complaint. This intimidation tactic underscored the controlling and violent dynamics of the abuse, as highlighted by the investigating officer, Detective Constable Josh Marks of Devon and Cornwall Police. DC Marks described Rowe as 'a dangerous and violent sex offender who showed no regard for his victim who he controlled through fear.' The officer praised the victim's resilience, noting her steadfast engagement throughout the proceedings despite the trauma inflicted.

The offences occurred in the Devon area, with Rowe's actions spanning a period that left the victim in ongoing fear. The sentencing reflects the severity of the crimes, ensuring Rowe's lengthy incarceration to protect the public. This case, reported via the official Devon and Cornwall Police news portal, serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by victims in reporting sexual offences and the importance of police support in securing justice.