A vile Gillingham rapist who drugged and repeatedly abused a man he met online has finally been locked up following the victim’s tragic death.
Drugs, Abuse and Death Caught on CCTV
On Tuesday 21 May 2024, the 61-year-old victim arrived at Derek Rowley’s home on Beatty Avenue, Gillingham after meeting him online. Both men took a dangerous mix of drugs, including crystal meth, ketamine, and GHB, before having consensual sex.
But horror unfolded as CCTV footage from Rowley’s bedroom showed the victim became unresponsive at 5pm. Rowley then forcibly gave him a liquid from a syringe and raped him multiple times while he lay helpless.
Victim Found Dead – Rapist Arrested
The abuse went on until 9:38pm when Rowley went downstairs to tell a relative someone had died upstairs. Paramedics arrived at 9:53pm and confirmed the victim was dead.
Rowley, 45, was arrested immediately and charged with 11 counts of rape and administering a stupefying substance. Despite denying all charges, a jury at Maidstone Crown Court found him guilty on every count.
Justice Served – Rapist Gets 17 Years Behind Bars
On Thursday 5 March, Rowley was sentenced to 17 years in prison, finally held to account for his sickening crimes.
“This was a truly shocking and disturbing case. Rowley exploited the victim in the most appalling way, showing complete disregard for his welfare,” said Detective Inspector Lee Neiles.
“Thanks to our meticulous investigation and strong evidence, justice has been served. Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family who have shown tremendous dignity throughout.”
