A serial rapist who had already been jailed for the rape of one victim has been found guilty of attacking a further two women, causing him to receive a life sentence.

He “treated both victims in a derogatory and degrading way” and “was both emotionally and physically abusive” during the span of attacks.

Darrel Rose, 36, of no fixed address (formally of New Addington) was sentenced on December 5 at Croydon Crown Court, following a three-week trial.

Rose has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum of 18 years.

He was found guilty on all counts on May 30 which include seven counts of rape (three counts against victim one and four against victim two), assault by penetration (victim one), causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent (victim one).

Police worked tirelessly over a five-year period to bring Rose to justice.

He was already serving a 17-year jail sentence after being sentenced for the rape of a different woman on February 2, 2018.

During the previous investigation a further victim (victim two) came forward speak to police after she realised the same thing had happened to her.

Following this, officers also approached victim one, who had previously reported rape against Rose but withdrew her allegation because she was afraid of him.

Officers worked with her to re-open the case.

Between December 1, 2010, and February 28, 2011, victim one was sexually assaulted by Rose at home in Sydenham, Lewisham.

She reported the attacks to police after Rose shared nude photographs of her online but withdrew her allegation due to fear of him in July 2011.

Between 1 July and 31 July, 2011 Rose also raped the victim at an address in Luton.

The victim reported this to police in November 2017 and Rose was charged on August 5 2020.

Victim two, a woman in her 20s, was raped at an address outside of London on a number of occasions between December 1, 2015, and May 30, 2016.

She reported the attacks to police on July 27 2017.

Both women continue to be supported by specially trained officers.

Detective Sergeant Laura Thomas, from the Met’s South Area Public Protection Unit, said: “Darrel Rose treated both victims in a derogatory and degrading way. He was both emotionally and physically abusive and this sentence reflects the horror he put his victims through.

“Both victims have shown great bravery and courage in standing up to Rose and ensuring he is made to answer for his actions. I would like to praise the strength and commitment they have shown throughout this case.”

If anyone has been a victim of sexual assault or rape or you have information about this case, please contact police on 101 or dial 999 in an emergency and quote reference number CAD 9086/25MAR17.

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