A rapist described as a “dangerous offender” will spend the next 12 years behind bars.
Owen Rowe came under investigation after a woman reported being raped and assaulted by him.
During initial police interviews the 23-year-old admitted a “minor” assault on the woman but he continued to deny raping her.
Owen Rowe, 23, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for rape, coercive and controlling behaviour, sexual assault, and common assault. (Image: Cleveland Police)
Following a lengthy investigation in which Cleveland Police dealt with separate allegations from different victims, Rowe was convicted of rape of the original complainant, as well as with sexual assault and common assault on another woman, and with an attempted serious assault on a man.
On Monday (October 19) Rowe was sentenced to 12 years in prison, with an additional three years on licence.
At the hearing Rowe was referred to as a “dangerous offender”.
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DC Kirby from the force’s Protecting Vulnerable People unit (PVP), said: “This was an extremely complex investigation which seemed to grow and grow as additional information, allegations and counter allegations came into us.
“Throughout the investigation and trial, Rowe continued to deny what he’d done, minimising his actions and behaviour. Throughout enquiries, though, we remained steadfast and determined to establish the truth while keeping our victims updated and appropriately safeguarded throughout.
“I believe our perseverance has paid off and I’m relieved to hear Rowe has received a considerable sentence.
“I hope this outcome brings comfort to both women and the male victim who suffered at Rowe’s hands; I’d like to thank them all for supporting our enquiries over such a long time and I wish them well for the future.
“Finally, all our communities should be warned that Cleveland Police will not tolerate violence of any kind – sexual, physical or emotional - and we will always do everything we can to protect victims and bring perpetrators before the courts."