PRINCE DARKWA FROM BLACKWATER SENTENCED FOR RAPE IN GUILDFORD AFTER TINDER MEETINGS

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Blackwater, Surrey, Prince Darkwa, aged 26, has been convicted and sentenced for heinous sexual offenses committed against two women he met through the popular dating app Tinder. The incidents, which took place in October 2021, culminated in a lengthy trial at Guildford Crown Court, where the court heard harrowing details of the assaults and the subsequent legal proceedings.

Darkwa, residing on Yeomans Lane in Blackwater, was found guilty on 17 May of two counts of rape involving two different women. The court, after an eight-day trial, delivered a verdict that confirmed his guilt on these charges. However, he was acquitted of a third rape charge involving a different woman, which was not proven beyond reasonable doubt.

The court proceedings revealed that Darkwa initially met both victims through online dating platforms in October 2021. The first victim reported that she was raped at her home after their meeting on Tinder. She came forward to police on 6 October 2021, and her account led to Darkwa’s immediate arrest. During police interviews, the victim expressed her concerns about Darkwa’s behaviour through text messages to a friend, indicating her unease shortly after their encounter.

Darkwa was released on bail the following day, pending further investigation. The second victim’s case emerged later, with police receiving a report on 5 November 2021. She recounted that she had gone out for dinner with Darkwa on 18 October 2021. The night took a sinister turn when Darkwa insisted on accompanying her home, and the two began drinking together. The victim later described waking up to find Darkwa smiling at her and stroking her face, only to discover she was bleeding and in significant pain. She admitted to initial reluctance in reporting the incident, as she was unconscious during the assault and doubted her own recollection of what had happened.

Following the convictions, Darkwa was sentenced to six years in prison for the offence committed on 5 October 2021, with the sentence to run concurrently with his other sentence. For the more serious offence committed on 18 October 2021, he received a 12-year prison term, along with an extended license period of four years under the Dangerous Offender Provisions. This extended license means that Darkwa will be subject to a parole review before being eligible for release.

In addition to his prison sentences, Darkwa was handed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a Restraining Order that will remain in effect indefinitely, prohibiting him from contacting the victims. He is also required to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities to protect the community from further harm.