Jail for Sittingbourne man who raped woman after night out

A sex offender from Sittingbourne who raped his victim in a hotel room after a night out has been jailed.

Daniel Holdaway was found guilty following a trial at Maidstone Crown Court.

Investigation

Kent Police launched an investigation after a woman was assaulted in the Gravesend area on 29 August 2021. Holdaway, 24, spent time with his victim during the evening before taking her to pre-booked accommodation.

The two entered a hotel room together. Despite the woman repeatedly stating her wishes to Holdaway, he ignored them and raped her.

While the offender slept, the victim was able to leave the premises and reported what happened soon afterwards.

Officers attended and initial enquiries were completed. Holdaway was arrested on 31 August 2021 and was later charged with rape.

Jailed

Holdaway, from Burnham Close, Milton Regis, pleaded not guilty. On Friday 30 May 2025, after being convicted by jury, Holdaway was sentenced to five years in prison. He will have to comply with strict sex offender notification requirements indefinitely.

Detective Constable Daniel Burnett said: 'I would like to praise the victim’s courage in coming forward to report this man, who showed her no respect by clearly ignoring her wishes. I hope it offers her some closure that he has been convicted and will be subject to strict requirements on his release. Predators such as Holdaway need to understand that no means no, and we will always strive to bring offenders before the courts where they can be made to face justice.'