A Crawley man who subjected a woman to a decade of rape, assault, and controlling behaviour has been sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Wojciech Burylo, 50, of Calvin Walk in Bewbush, used sexual and physical violence, as well as threats of murder, to maintain control over the victim’s life between 2014 and 2024. His victim, a woman in her 40s, endured more than 40 calls a day from Burylo, in which he demanded to know her whereabouts and issued violent threats, including decapitation.
The victim reported the abuse to Sussex Police in January 2024, leading to Burylo’s arrest. Although he was released on bail under strict conditions and placed under a Domestic Violence Protection Notice, he violated these terms within an hour of his release. Using a bystander’s phone, he contacted the victim and continued his threats via messages. He was swiftly re-arrested and remanded in custody, where he persisted in sending threatening letters.
At Lewes Crown Court on Tuesday, July 9, Burylo was found guilty of three counts of rape, three counts of making threats to kill, and one count of battery. On Monday, March 10, he was sentenced to 20 years, with 15 years to be served in custody and five years on extended licence. He was also issued an indefinite restraining order and will remain on the sex offenders register for life.
During sentencing, HHJ Chapple described Burylo as ‘obsessional, controlling, coercive, and dominating’, acknowledging the severe impact his actions had on the victim’s life. The judge commended the victim, calling her a ‘brave and remarkable woman’.
Detective Inspector Darren Taylor of Sussex Police praised the victim’s courage in coming forward: “Wojciech Burylo thought he could keep his victim under his control through years of appalling violent, sexual, and psychological abuse. But he underestimated her, and in 2024, this incredibly brave woman reported his monstrous crimes to Sussex Police. We listened to her, and we believed her. She was taken to a place of safety, and thanks to her, Burylo is now behind bars.
“I hope the conclusion of court proceedings brings her some sense of closure as she rebuilds her life without the threat of further abuse from Burylo.
“If you are a victim of violent, controlling, or sexually abusive behaviour, please report it to us online or via 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency. We will listen to you, support you, and do everything we can to seek justice.”
