In response to recent reports of rapes and sexual assaults in Brighton, the police have taken proactive measures, leading to charges against two men and an ongoing investigation into another incident.
Over the past three weeks, a series of offenses have been reported in the vicinity, prompting intensified police patrols. Authorities are collaborating with local venues, including pubs and clubs, to ensure the safety of individuals enjoying their nights out.
While two of the incidents are connected, as a single suspect has been charged and remanded, there is no known link between these cases and the ongoing investigations.
The incidents unfolded as follows:
- September 6: A report was received about a young woman who was raped near Brighton Pier shortly after midnight.
- September 8: Officers responded to a call on London Road in the early hours, where a woman in her 20s reported a sexual assault around 3.15 am.
A man has been charged with rape and attempted rape in relation to both of these incidents and is currently in custody.
- September 10: A member of the public expressed concern for a woman in her 30s near the Kings Road Arches beach at approximately 5.35 am. Police arrested a man at the scene, who has since been charged with rape and remanded in custody.
Efforts to locate a second suspect in this investigation are ongoing, and authorities are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man captured in CCTV images.
- September 16: In the early hours, a report was received about a woman in her 20s who was raped on the beach. A 31-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of rape and possession of a class B drug (cannabis). He has been remanded in custody for an unrelated matter.
Additionally, an investigation is in progress regarding reports of a woman being raped on the seafront near Brighton Pier and another sexual assault nearby, occurring shortly after 3 am on September 24.
Police continue their efforts to locate the suspects, and anyone with information that could aid the investigation is encouraged to come forward. Each victim is receiving support from specialized officers as comprehensive investigations unfold.
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.”
“In addition to extended patrols in the area, we are working with venues and partners, including Night Safety Marshals, Beach Patrol, taxi marshals and Safe Space, to help keep people safe.
“Digital screens highlighting support services such as Night Safety Marshals, who can escort people to safe locations and link in with officers via their mobile handsets, are also being displayed in venues across Brighton.
“If you have concerns or feel unsafe, please contact police or a member of security staff, or dial 999 in an emergency.”
