A RAPIST who tried to intimidate his victim into withdrawing from the investigation has been jailed for 23 years.

Daniel Rowe, 35, formerly of Tiverton and Exeter, appeared at Exeter Crown Court for sentence on Friday, January 16, after previously being found guilty by a jury of three counts of rape.

During the trial, the court heard how the victim in the case disclosed to officers several rapes committed against her by Rowe.

She described being terrified of Rowe and scared he would hurt her if she fought back.

The victim provided messages to officers showing Rowe apologising after one such attack.

After the offences were reported, Rowe contacted his victim and made attempts to pressurise her to withdraw her statement. He also made threats that he would get others to terrorise her.

In interview, Rowe claimed that sexual activity between the two was consensual.

Officer in the case, DC Josh Marks said: ‘We welcome the sentence given to Daniel Rowe following his conviction for what is an extremely troubling set of sexual offences.

‘Daniel Rowe is a dangerous and violent sex offender who showed no regard for his victim who he controlled through fear.

‘I would like to praise the strength of the victim and thank her for remaining engaged throughout proceedings.

‘I hope she now feels some closure and is able to move on with her life knowing Rowe will remain behind bars for many years’.

Support available

If you have been affected by this article there is support available.

You can visit victimcare-dc.org to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system.

You can also call Victim Support on 0808 1689 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.

Advice and support can also be found at:

National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626

For more information please visit: www.dc.police.uk/Rape-SexualAssault