Sussex Police have announced that a man has been charged following the abduction and rape of a 13-year-old girl in Brighton.
Hamdan Alshamsi, aged 20 and of no fixed address, was apprehended after an investigation and now faces two charges of rape and child abduction. Authorities have confirmed that the suspect and the victim were known to each other.
Court Appearance and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Alshamsi appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, December 31. He was remanded in custody and will next appear at Brighton Crown Court on January 28, where the case will continue.
The victim is currently being supported by specially trained officers, who are providing resources to aid her through this difficult time.
Sussex Police Reinforces Commitment to Combatting Sexual Violence
Detective Chief Inspector Steve Cobbett emphasized the seriousness with which Sussex Police handle cases of sexual violence. “Sussex Police takes all reports of sexual violence offences extremely seriously,” he said. The detective also encouraged individuals to seek support and find resources via the Sussex Police website.