A 17-year-old boy from Bognor has appeared in court in connection with the death of 51-year-old Paul Lawrence, who was tragically killed in Gladonian Road, Littlehampton, during the early hours of 28 January 2024.
Following a detailed police investigation, the Crown Prosecution Service authorised a charge of manslaughter. The teenager appeared before Worthing Youth Court on Thursday 3 July. The case has been adjourned to Portsmouth Crown Court, where a preliminary hearing will take place on Friday 4 July.
In connection with the same incident, a second 17-year-old boy from Littlehampton was arrested. He has been charged with sending a grossly offensive, indecent, obscene, or menacing message under section 127 of the Communications Act 2003, and possession of cannabis. He has pleaded guilty to both charges and is due to appear at Worthing Youth Court on 14 August.
Neither of the boys can be named due to legal restrictions protecting the identity of minors.
A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Mr Lawrence at this incredibly difficult time.”
Police continue to appeal for information. Anyone with further details related to the incident is asked to report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Sett.
