Crawley man jailed for raping young girl in case of 'horrific and systematic abuse'

Adam Arnold, 32, unemployed, of Webb Close, Crawley, appeared by videolink at Hove Crown Court on Tuesday (9 June) for his sentencing, police said.

He had pleaded guilty at a previous hearing to four counts of rape and eight counts of other serious sexual assaults, which took place over several years, according to police.

Detective Constable Ellen Jones of the East Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit said: "Arnold began this horrific and systematic abuse which she suffered, unbeknown to anyone else, until she felt able to confide in someone she knew last year, and we were promptly informed.

"We took immediate action and Arnold was arrested.

"This young girl had endured the trauma and distress of what happened to her, in secret, and we admire all the more her courage and resolution in now supporting both our investigation and the prosecution.

"If you are a victim of sexual abuse, or know of someone else who is, no matter how recent or long ago, contact us at any time in confidence, and arrange to talk in confidence to experienced investigators. We have specialist officers who can also help you access to a range of independent advice and support."

Arnold will also be a registered sex offender for life and was given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) to last until further court order, severely restricting his access to women and children.

For further information on how to report sexual abuse and support available visit the Sussex Police website.