Eastbourne man convicted of raping young girl

An Eastbourne man who raped and assaulted a young girl has been convicted at court.

Keith Williams, 60, of Tintern Close in Eastbourne, subjected a girl to multiples rapes, and physical and sexual assaults, in May, 2020.

The victim was under 13 years old at the time of the offending.

The incidents were reported to Sussex Police after the victim confided in a family member, who raised the alarm.

She was given support by specialist officers and our partners, while Williams was arrested.

He was subsequently charged with four counts of rape of a child, and one count each of assault by penetration of a child, sexual assault of a child and cruelty to a child.

Following a five-day trial, he was found guilty by a jury at Lewes Crown Court on Friday, 2 August.

He has been remanded in custody to be sentenced at a court to be confirmed on 20 September.

Detective Sergeant Nick Green, of Eastbourne’s Safeguarding Investigations Unit, said: “The young victim in this investigation has shown incredible bravery in reporting these horrific crimes. She has provided evidence under extremely difficult circumstances and has shown such strength throughout the investigation.

“Thanks to her resilience, we have been able to secure this conviction.

“This has been a deeply upsetting case and I hope she can now start to rebuild her life, safe in the knowledge that Williams now faces a significant custodial sentence.”

If you are a victim of sexual offending, please report it to the police online or via 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

We will support you and we will do everything we can to get you justice.