Four charged over damage to properties in East Sussex

Police in East Sussex have now arrested and charged four men suspected of involvement in a series of attacks including arson on houses in Rye, Bexhill and Hastings in recent weeks. Other arrests have also been made.

Between June and July some 70 attacks had taken place, involving window smashing and arson.

Charlie Banks, 18, of no fixed address, has been charged with Conspiracy to commit arson with intent or reckless as to whether life was endangered in Rye between 7 July and 15 July. He was remanded in custody and is next to appear at Lewes Crown Court on 23 August.

Joshua Lemon, 21, of Camber, has been charged with grievous bodily harm that occurred in Rye on the 28th June 2022. He was given court bail to appear at Lewes Crown Court on 19 August and required to live at an address outside Sussex meantime.

Haydyn Russell, 18, of St Leonards, has been charged with criminal damage to a restaurant in Hastings on 3 June: arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered and criminal damage, both at Ferring Close, Rye, on 13 July, jointly with Bradley Froud: and being concerned in the supply and possession of cannabis. He was committed for trial at Lewes Crown Court, with an initial hearing on 12 August.

Five other arrests have previously been made.

Bradley Froud, 18, of St Leonards, is due to appear in custody at Lewes Crown Court on 12 August, charged with arson reckless as to whether life was intended in Benson Way, Rye, on 8 and 12 July, and in Ferring Way, Rye, on 13 July. He was also charged with smashing windows in Ferring Way and with unlawful possession of two knives.

Two boys aged 16 were arrested on 14 July on suspicion of criminal damage and were later released on police bail.

A man aged 21 was arrested on 5 July on suspicion of criminal damage and conspiracy to commit blackmail, and was also released on police bail while enquiries continue.

Detective Inspector Graham Farmer said: “Our enquiries into are continuing and we welcome any further information. You can contact us either online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Rock. Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”