Met investigation results in man being jailed for rape in Croydon

A man who raped a woman in Croydon has been jailed.

Diego Dellarovere, 43 (14.06.80), of Holland Road, W14, was sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, 15 March to seven years' imprisonment.

He was convicted of rape, assault by penetration and sexual assaulted at Croydon Crown Court on Friday, 19 January.

Officers launched an investigation after a woman came forward in May 2021 to report that she had been attacked by Dellarovere at a house in Croydon.

The women rented a room in the house. Dellarovere had booked to stay there on 7 May 2021 through an online booking site.

He had spent some of the evening out in Croydon before returning home and sexually assaulting the woman, before raping her.

Dellarovere was located through intelligence which linked him to property.

Officers carried out arrest enquiries at Dellarovere’s house to arrest the suspect, however he was not located.

He later handed himself in to Hammersmith Police Station.

Detective Constable Natalie Alchin, who led the investigation, said: "Dellarovere forced himself on this woman in her own home. Somewhere she should have felt safe and I have no doubt that she terrified.

"I am pleased our investigation has resulted in him receiving a significant custodial sentence and I would like to praise the victim for the support she has shown the investigation. We do not underestimate the impact that would have had on her.

"The Met continue to be committed to tackling violence against women and girls and I hope the outcome of this investigation gives other victims of sexual offences to come forward and report them to us."