A man has been found guilty of rape, attempted rape, and trespass with intent to commit a sexual offence following a violent break-in at a home in Hastings.
The incident took place on 30 November 2024 in Milward Crescent, where the victim was attacked in her own home. She had opened the door believing it was a delivery, but instead was confronted by a masked man who forced his way inside and subjected her to a 15-minute assault before fleeing.
The woman immediately called 999, and specialist officers were deployed to the scene. A swift investigation involving door-to-door enquiries and CCTV footage led to the identification of a suspect. Following media appeals, 32-year-old Jason Wren, of Redmayne Drive, Hastings, handed himself in at Hastings Police Station on 7 December.
Wren was arrested and denied the rape, claiming it had been a consensual meeting arranged the day before when they allegedly passed in the street. However, this was proven false during the investigation.
He was charged the following day and remanded into custody, pleading not guilty at a court hearing in January.
Jason Wren Convicted Following Terrifying Sex Attack in Milward Crescent
On Tuesday, 3 June, after a six-day trial at Hove Crown Court, a jury found Wren guilty on all counts. He has been remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced on 12 September.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cullimore of the Major Crime Team said:
“This was a terrifying ordeal that happened in the victim’s own home, a place she should be able to feel completely safe. I’d like to commend her for the courage she has shown throughout this investigation.
“Jason Wren fabricated a story to try and deflect blame, but the jury saw through his lies and found him guilty of his predatory and violent actions.
“I want to reassure survivors that they will be believed and supported. No one has the right to violate another person, and we remain committed to holding offenders to account.”
Anyone wishing to report a sexual offence can contact police on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.
