Crawley teen subjected girl to ‘appalling sexual abuse’

A 16-year-old boy who subjected an eight-year-old girl to ‘appalling sexual abuse’ was today locked up for six years. 

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, abused the girl over a two year period, a court heard. 

He has now been sent to a Youth Offenders’ Institution after he was convicted of rape and sexual assaults on the minor.

A spokesman for Sussex Police said: ‘A 16-year old Crawley boy has been sentenced to a total of six years’ custody for sexual offences against an eight-year-old girl known to him.

‘At Brighton Crown Court, having been found guilty after a trial at Lewes Crown Court, the boy was given six years for rape, and five years for each of two sexual assaults, all to run concurrently.

‘He was between 14 and 15-years-old at the time of the offences, which took place in 2015 and 2016.

‘Judge Anthony described the assaults as ‘appalling sexual abuse’.

‘The prosecution followed an investigation by detectives from the West Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit, who worked closely with partner agencies.’

The 16-year-old boy was convicted of rape and sexual assaults at Lewes Crown Court (pictured) 

Detective Constable Nicky Beard said: ‘This was a distressing case but it sends a message to all young people that sexual offending will be taken seriously and investigated.

‘If you ever have concerns about such behaviour, please contact us on 101, and arrange to speak in confidence to experienced investigators. We can also arrange access to sources of further counselling and support.’