Rapist jailed as police praise victims’ courage

A man has been jailed for raping two women in attacks that took place several years apart.

Alexander Philip Rowley, 26, of Easingwold, repeatedly denied the offences and claimed his victims were lying.

However, he was convicted of two counts of rape by a jury and sentenced to 11 years in jail today.

Rowley’s victims, both young women, were targeted in separate attacks at residential addresses in North Yorkshire. Both happened in recent years.

He was sentenced by a judge at Hull Crown Court today. Upon his release, he will have to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.

Speaking after sentencing, Detective Constable Gillian Gowling, who led the investigation by North Yorkshire Police, said: “Both of Rowley’s victims have shown great courage and tenacity in coming forward and working with us, especially given Rowley’s constant denial of what happened.

“While this is never an easy process for victims, I hope today’s sentencing gives them some degree of closure. It also takes a sex offender out of our communities, which ensures no-one else can come to harm.”

DC Gowling urged anyone who believed they may have been raped or sexually assaulted to seek support and advice.

“Regardless of how long ago it happened, there are advice services available to help people explore their options, which may involve prosecution or may involve emotional and practical support, or a combination of all,” she added.

“Those decisions are always made by victims, so I want to ensure people know what help is available to them.”

• You can call North Yorkshire Police on 101 (selecting option 1) for support, advice and guidance as well as to report a crime, even if you’re not sure whether an offence has taken place.
• There are also a number of non-police support services available to victims. Find out more here.