Selsey man sentenced for two counts of rape, arson, and coercive control

A man has been jailed after he was found guilty of two counts of rape and other offences against a woman in West Sussex.

Arthur Norris, known to most as Alfy Norris, sought to isolate the victim, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, and control her.

He claimed that the victim’s family and friends were “toxic” for her.

Police were alerted after Norris attended her address and set fire to her car.

She then disclosed how she had been raped and controlled by Norris, who forced himself upon her.

Norris, 35, formerly of Montalan Crescent, Selsey, stood trial at Portsmouth Crown Court in December, charged with two counts of rape, arson, and coercive control.

The jury reached unanimous guilty verdicts on all four counts against him.

The court heard how the victim revealed the extent of the sexual offences and abuse after he had attended her address and torched her vehicle in July 22.

Officers swiftly arrested Norris, and he was remanded in custody to await trial.

In court on Monday, March 6, Norris was sentenced to 7 years and 8 months in custody.

Detective Constable Jason Berney said: “Norris told a string of lies to deflect blame and to convince the people around him, including the victim, that he was not guilty of these offences.

“He was manipulative, but we are pleased that the jury saw through his lies.

“His offending caused distress to the victim who has had to go through the court proceedings. She has received support from specially-trained officers throughout.

“The case demonstrates our determination to get justice for victims of rape. We always take reports seriously, and provide advice about how investigations will proceed.

“Despite his lies, Norris is now behind bars.”

Advice about how Sussex Police investigates a report of rape or serious sexual assault, visit our website here.

Support and help for victims of rape and sexual assault is online here.