A homeless man from Maidstone has been locked up for raping a woman in the communal area beside some flats. Thomas Underdown, 33, attacked the victim after they’d agreed to meet at an outbuilding he used as a sleeping spot near St Peter’s Street.
Shock Assault After Midnight Meeting
The horror began at around 12:20am on 5 January 2024. After a kiss, the victim made it clear she did not consent to any further intimacy. Underdown ignored her wishes, trapping her on a mattress and sexually abusing her.
Justice Served at Southwark Crown Court
The victim reported the attack to Kent Police on 9 January. Underdown was arrested the next day and charged with rape. Despite pleading not guilty, a jury unanimously convicted him. On 5 December 2025, he was sentenced to a nine-year jail term. He must serve at least two-thirds before parole and has been slapped with an indefinite restraining order.
Police Praise Victim’s Courage
Detective Constable Stuart Cook said: “This was a deeply traumatic ordeal for the victim, who showed immense courage in coming forward and supporting our investigation. She made it clear to Underdown that she did not consent, and her wishes were ignored in the most appalling way. Consent is never negotiable — no means no.”
“I hope this conviction and sentence brings the victim some sense of justice and reassurance that her voice has been heard. We have dedicated teams committed to supporting victims and ensuring those who do commit such appalling offences are held fully accountable.”
