A vile Gillingham rapist who drugged and repeatedly abused a man he met online has finally been jailed 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 cocktail of drugs, including crystal meth, ketamine, and GHB, before having consensual sex.
However, horror unfolded as CCTV footage from Rowley’s bedroom showed the victim became unresponsive at 5pm. Rowley then forcibly gave the victim a liquid from a syringe and raped him multiple times while he was helpless.
Victim Found Dead – Rapist Arrested
The abuse continued until 9:38pm when Rowley went downstairs to alert a relative someone had died in the bedroom. Paramedics arrived at 9:53pm and confirmed the victim was dead.
Rowley, 45, was arrested on the spot and charged with 11 counts of rape and administering a stupefying substance. He denied all charges but was found guilty on every count by a jury at Maidstone Crown Court.
Justice Served – 17 Years Behind Bars
On Thursday 5 March, Rowley was sentenced to 17 years in prison, finally held to account for his depraved actions.
“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.”
