ALEXANDER ROWE FROM BRADFORD AND HUDDERSFIELD SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES INVOLVING TEENAGE GIRL

A man from Huddersfield, Alexander Rowe, has been sentenced to five years in prison after being convicted of multiple sexual offences committed against a teenage girl. Rowe, aged 30 and residing in the Marsh area, claimed during police questioning that he was involved in a “loving” relationship with the young victim. However, the court found that his claims did not align with the evidence presented during the trial at Bradford Crown Court.

Throughout the proceedings, Rowe admitted to having a sexual relationship with the girl when initially questioned by authorities. Nonetheless, he denied the specific offences he was charged with. The jury ultimately convicted him of inciting the girl to engage in sexual activity and of engaging in sexual activity with her. The court heard that the relationship involved messaging exchanges on Snapchat, where Rowe asked the teenager to send him sexual images of herself.

During the sentencing, a victim impact statement was read aloud, revealing the profound effect the offences had on the young girl. She disclosed that she had been prescribed anti-depressants and that the trauma from the incident had significantly impacted her daily life. She expressed difficulty in articulating the extent of her suffering, emphasizing that the experience was overwhelming for someone her age.

Representing Rowe, barrister Anastasis Tasou argued that his client maintained his innocence and believed the relationship was mutual and reciprocal. Mr. Tasou highlighted that Rowe was a man of previously good character, with numerous positive testimonials submitted on his behalf. He emphasized that this case was likely to be Rowe’s first and possibly only experience of incarceration, suggesting that the sentence should be considered carefully.

Judge Patrick Palmer addressed the court, noting that Rowe and the victim had exchanged messages on Snapchat, with Rowe requesting explicit images. The judge pointed out that Rowe had pleaded not guilty and had undergone a trial before a jury, which resulted in his conviction. The judge clarified that Rowe would not receive any leniency for fighting the case but also would not be penalized further for his guilty plea.

In addition to the five-year prison term, Recorder Palmer imposed an indefinite sexual harm prevention order on Rowe. He also mandated that Rowe register as a sex offender with the police, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community from further harm.