Rocco Minafra, 47, of Tonbridge, was convicted at Maidstone Crown Court of rape, three counts of sexual assault and threats to kill following an attack near Mount Ephraim Road in Tunbridge Wells.
Minafra, an Italian national living at Judd Road, Tonbridge, was sentenced on 18 August 2026 after being convicted following a trial at Maidstone Crown Court on 16 June 2026. He was also made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order lasting 15 years.
Kent Police received a report on 18 October 2025 that a teenager had been assaulted and threatened with death by a stranger in a secluded area near Mount Ephraim Road. The victim told officers the man had approached her while riding a bike — and had told her his name was “Rocco”. Detectives reviewed CCTV footage, and two days later arrested Minafra. He denied the charges. He was convicted following a trial.
Detective Charlene Brent, of Kent Police, said the diligent work of the investigation team had proved Minafra was lying when he denied the offences, and expressed hope the victim could find some closure knowing he is behind bars.
Brent also highlighted the victim’s bravery. She had reported the attack, given officers key details about the suspect — his name, his bike — and gone back to the scene with police to pinpoint the exact location. Not easy. None of it.
Editor’s note: Under the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1992, the victim of this offence has a legal right to lifelong anonymity. No information that could identify her has been published.