Man convicted of multiple sexual assaults receives 12-year prison term

A complex investigation by Cleveland Police led to the conviction of 23-year-old Owen Rowe on multiple charges, including rape, coercive and controlling behaviour, sexual assault, common assault and an attempted serious assault. The probe started in early 2024 after a woman reported that Rowe had raped and emotionally blackmailed her, prompting officers to examine further allegations from other victims. The court handed down a 12-year custodial sentence with an additional three years on licence, and the judge referred to Rowe as a dangerous offender.

DC Kirby of the Protecting Vulnerable People unit highlighted the case’s growing complexity as new information emerged, and praised the perseverance of investigators. The sentencing aims to provide some measure of closure for the women and the male victim involved.