Homeless Man Jailed for Brutal Rape in Maidstone Flats
A Maidstone homeless man has been locked up for raping a woman in a grim attack by some flats. Thomas Underdown, 33, assaulted the victim after they met at an outbuilding he used as a sleeping spot near St Peter’s Street.
Midnight Horror After Agreeing to Meet
The nightmare started just after midnight on 5 January 2024. After a kiss, the woman made it clear she refused any further intimacy. But Underdown ignored her, trapping her on a mattress and sexually assaulting her in the communal area.
Jury Delivers Verdict: Nine Years Behind Bars
The victim reported the rape to Kent Police on 9 January. Underdown was arrested the next day and charged. Despite pleading not guilty, the jury found him unanimously guilty. On 5 December 2025 at Southwark Crown Court, he was sentenced to nine years in prison, with a minimum two-thirds to serve before parole.
He has also been hit with an indefinite restraining order to protect the victim.
Police Praise Victim’s Bravery
Detective Constable Stuart Cook said: “This was a deeply traumatic ordeal for the victim, who showed immense courage in coming forward and supporting our investigation. She made it clear to Underdown that she did not consent, and her wishes were ignored in the most appalling way. Consent is never negotiable — no means no.”
“I hope this conviction and sentence brings the victim some sense of justice and reassurance that her voice has been heard. We have dedicated teams committed to supporting victims and ensuring those who do commit such appalling offences are held fully accountable.”
