Three remanded in custody after reports of rape and sexual assault in East Sussex

Patrols have been stepped up on Brighton beach and the city centre and the force is working with pubs, clubs and other venues to help people safely enjoy their nights out.

Police said the offences have been reported in the last three weeks around a similar geographic area. Two of the offences are linked as a single suspect has been charged and remanded, but there is no link between this and the other ongoing investigations, Sussex Police confirmed.

Detective Superintendent Richard McDonagh, Head of Sussex Police’s Safeguarding Investigations Unit, said: “We understand the public will be concerned by these reports and we are offering specialist support to each of the victims in these cases.

“They are fast-moving investigations and we are grateful to all those who made reports and supported our enquiries, helping us to swiftly bring three suspects into custody.

“Women and girls should be able to enjoy a night out in safety. These incidents highlight the importance of targeting perpetrators, reducing their ability to cause harm and protecting people in vulnerable situations.

“We have extra officers carrying out extended patrols in the area, alongside the wide range of safety measures with our partners to keep people safe in the city centre.

“If you feel threatened or made uncomfortable by someone’s behaviour, please report it to security staff, a police officer or by dialling 999 in an emergency. The same applies if you see someone behaving suspiciously or who appears to be vulnerable.

“We would remind people of the ‘Ask for Angela’ scheme, which allows anyone who feels unsafe, vulnerable or threatened to discreetly ask for help in the city’s venues. We would also encourage the public to download the Safe Space Sussex app, which highlights the location of safe spaces people can wait for a friend or taxi.”

On Wednesday, September 6, police received a report that a young woman had been raped on the beach near Brighton Pier shortly after midnight.

Three days later, on Friday, September 8, Sussex Police said officers were called to London Road in the early hours after a report that a woman had been sexually assaulted at around 3.15am.

A man has subsequently been charged with rape and attempted rape, in relation to both incidents, and remanded in custody, police confirmed.

On Sunday, September 10, police were called to the beach near the Kings Road Arches at around 5.35am by a member of the public concerned for the welfare of a woman.

Police said officers arrested a man at the scene, who has been charged with rape and remanded in custody.

Sussex Police said enquiries to trace a second suspect in the investigation are ongoing. Officers are keen to speak to the man captured in these CCTV images and are asking anyone who recognises him or has any information to get in touch.