Darren Conway, a 52-year-old shoe salesman from north London, has pleaded guilty to 11 charges, including nine counts of encouraging others to sexually assault women who were unconscious, asleep, or stupefied. His admissions stem from his involvement in a global network that facilitates the drugging and sexual assault of partners.
Conway admitted to messaging a man last year, urging him to touch his wife sexually and remove her clothes on multiple occasions. These actions occurred between 2023 and 2026. He also pleaded guilty to voyeurism and possession of extreme pornography. The father-of-two entered his guilty pleas at Wood Green Crown Court. He faces potential years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for October 30.
The investigation into Conway is part of a larger international effort led by the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA). Officers have arrested eight men in the UK in connection with an internet forum where members allegedly shared graphic videos and images of sexual abuse against unconscious women. The forum members also exchanged advice on sedatives and methods for carrying out assaults.
The NCA is collaborating with law enforcement agencies in dozens of countries, including France, Germany, Brazil, Spain, the Netherlands, and the United States, to identify close to 300 individuals associated with the forum. Prosecutors stated that the extent of the offending dates back several years and involves numerous other individuals.
This case follows a similar investigation in Manchester and has prompted inquiries across the UK. Metropolitan Police Commander Andy Day emphasized the severe and lasting impact of drug-facilitated sexual offenses and highlighted the risk Conway's actions posed to women in their own homes. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) London South stated its commitment to working with law enforcement to bring such offenders to justice and encouraged potential victims to come forward.
Police are continuing efforts to identify victims depicted in the footage found on Conway's devices. While much of the offending is believed to have occurred in the UK, investigators acknowledge the possibility of victims being located abroad. The investigation into this international network is ongoing, and further charges against Conway may be laid.