TREVOR ROWLANDS SENTENCED IN CHESTER FOR RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT ON SLEEPING WOMEN

A man from Chester, identified as Trevor Rowlands, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of heinous sexual offenses involving two women who were asleep at the time of the assaults.

Trevor Rowlands, also known by the name Joe Rowlands, appeared before Chester Crown Court on Wednesday, 28 May, where he received a sentence of 15 years behind bars. The court proceedings revealed that the 33-year-old resident of Saddlery Way, Chester, was convicted on multiple counts, including two charges of rape, three counts of sexual assault by penetration, and one count of voyeurism.

In addition to his prison sentence, the court mandated that Rowlands must sign the sex offenders register for the remainder of his life, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the need for ongoing monitoring.

The court heard disturbing details about the first incident, which took place in August 2018. During this incident, Rowlands raped a woman while she was sleeping at his residence in Chester. The victim had previously expressed her unwillingness to sleep with him, making the assault even more egregious. Initially, she chose not to report the incident, perhaps due to fear or shame. However, her perspective changed in March 2019 when she discovered several recordings stored on Rowlands’ iPad.

These recordings depicted Rowlands sexually assaulting her while she was unconscious, with the woman having no memory of the events and not giving her consent. The revelation of these videos prompted her to come forward with her account of the assault.

Further complicating the case, the victim confided in another woman, revealing that she had also been raped by Rowlands while she was sleeping. This second woman’s disclosure led both women to report the incidents to the authorities in September 2019.

Following the reports, Cheshire Police’s Protecting Vulnerable People Team launched an investigation into the allegations. Rowlands was subsequently arrested in connection with the case. During police questioning, he denied any involvement in the rapes or assaults. Despite his denials, the evidence against him was compelling enough to charge him with all the offenses.

Detective Constable Michaela Burns commented on the case, emphasizing the bravery of the victims. She stated, “Most importantly, I want to acknowledge the incredible courage of the victims in this case for coming forward and reporting what happened to them. It is thanks to their bravery that Rowlands’ predatory behaviour has finally been exposed, helping to safeguard other women in the future.”

She continued, “Rowlands’ actions were truly horrifying, but thanks to the strength and resilience shown by both victims throughout the investigation and trial, he is now facing the rightful consequences of his actions. Nobody should have to endure what they have been through, and I hope that the conclusion of this case and the sentence handed to Rowlands provides the victims with a sense of justice and supports their ongoing healing process.”

Members of the public are encouraged to report any sexual offences by contacting Cheshire Constabulary at 101 or visiting their official website. In emergencies, always dial 999. Additionally, anonymous reporting can be made through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.