An Italian graphic designer who resides in the UK has been found guilty after coercing an Airbnb apartment host into a sexual encounter and then promising to leave a “good review”.
Diego Dellarovere committed the assault at the home of the host in Croydon, South London, where she welcomed him as her first-ever guest.
Following the attack, the victim barricaded herself in her bedroom with a block of knives to avoid the 43-year-old perpetrator.
Dellarovere claimed that the sexual encounter was consensual, citing a “moment of passion” when he exposed himself. However, the jury found him guilty on charges of rape, sexual assault, and assault by penetration.
The court heard how the pair were sitting on the sofa, having wine, when Dellarovere offered a massage. Despite the victim’s refusal, he proceeded to play spa music and use oil without her consent.
Despite her objections, the successful graphic designer forced himself on the woman after exposing himself.
Following the assault, the victim locked herself in her bedroom with her pets. Dellarovere then messaged her, saying: “Seize the moment. Life is beautiful”.
She then texted him, accusing him of being a “predator”, prompting his response: “You really need more light in your soul, more freedom. The men are not all about evil.
“Why did you send that message?”
The following morning, Dellarovere assured her: “I’ll leave a good review.”
After he left, the victim sent two voice notes to her friend, narrating the incident and expressing unease about Dellarovere’s advances.
She recounted how the conversation turned inappropriate and described her distress as she tried to fend off his advances.
She informed her friend about Dellarovere’s insistence on sharing a bed and her subsequent distress.
When they later met, the victim was visibly distressed and terrified by the ordeal, expressing disbelief and shock at what had transpired despite her clear refusal.
Ultimately, the host reported the assault to Airbnb and then to the authorities.
Dellarovere is set to be sentenced at Inner London Crown Court on January 31.
