Teen Charged with Manslaughter After Man’s Death in Littlehampton

Teenager Charged with Manslaughter in Connection with Death of Paul Lawrence in Littlehampton

A teenager has been charged with manslaughter following the death of 51-year-old Paul Lawrence in Littlehampton earlier this year.

Mr Lawrence, a local resident, was tragically killed in Gladonian Road during the early hours of 28 January 2024, prompting a major police investigation.

Following extensive enquiries, Sussex Police confirmed that the Crown Prosecution Service has authorised a charge of manslaughter against a 17-year-old boy from Bognor. He has been released on conditional bail and is due to appear before Worthing Youth Court on 3 July.

A second 17-year-old boy from Littlehampton, who was also arrested in connection with the incident, has been charged with sending a grossly offensive, indecent, obscene, or menacing message under the Communications Act 2003. He also faces a charge of cannabis possession. He too has been released on conditional bail to appear at the same court on 3 July.

Due to legal restrictions, neither of the teenagers can be named.

A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Mr Lawrence as we continue to support them during this difficult time.”