Brighton man convicted of sexual offences against a child

A Brighton man charged with sexual offences against a child has been convicted at court.

Callum Thewlis, 24, of Moulsecoomb Way, was charged with two counts of the rape of a girl aged 13-15 and two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13-15.

It followed a report received in 2018 from a teenage girl who reported being raped on two occasions.

She was supported by specialist officers and an investigation was launched.

Thewlis, who was 17 at the time of the offences, was arrested in February, 2018, and following a thorough investigation was charged and brought before the court.

At Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 16 February, 2023, Thewlis pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape of a girl aged 13-15.

He pleaded guilty to two alternative charges of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13-15.

At Lewes Crown Court on Friday, 10 November, Thewlis was found not guilty by a jury of both counts of rape of a girl aged 13-15.

He is due to be sentenced at a court to be confirmed on 20 December.

Detective Sergeant Gemma Holley said: “This conviction will rightly see Callum Thewlis face justice for his crimes, but his victim must live with their impact for the rest of her life.

“I would like to thank her for reporting to us and supporting the investigation through to its conclusion. This result would not have been possible without her bravery and strength.

“If you or someone you know are a victim of sexual offences, please report to police online or via 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”