Man charged with rape and sexual assaults in Brighton
A man has been charged with the rape of a woman on Brighton Beach, close to the pier, in the early hours of Thursday 1 May. The suspect, from Brighton, appeared in court on Saturday (3 May) and has been remanded in custody.
He has also been charged with three counts of sexual assault in relation to a separate incident from September 2024.
Detectives urge anyone with information to report it online or call 101, quoting serial 144 of 01/05.
More information about support services available for serious sexual offences is available on the Sussex Police website.
This is a shocking and deeply upsetting incident. While a suspect is now in custody, it serves as a stark reminder of how vital it is that security personnel remain alert, trained, and proactive in spotting vulnerability and predatory behaviour — especially in the night-time economy.
Vulnerability & Why It Matters
We issued an alert ahead of the weekend to highlight the increased risks facing vulnerable individuals, particularly near the seafront, during peak times like kick-out.
Vulnerable people — whether intoxicated, separated from friends, or in distress — are more likely to be targeted by predators.
Predators often:
Hang back and observe
Offer “help” insistently
Target those isolated or visibly intoxicated
Wait outside venues after closing
A moment of intervention can prevent harm. That’s why we’re urging all venues to ensure their teams:
Know how to spot the signs of vulnerability and coercion
Feel confident using interventions like the Power of Hello
Are encouraged to report concerns early using venue protocols, BCRP radios, and DISC
Training, Reporting, and Cultural Change
Brighton’s nightlife should be a place where everyone feels safe, welcomed, and supported. That means:
Making vulnerability training part of inductions and refreshers for staff in the night-time economy
Ensuring staff know how to log and escalate concerns
Empowering door teams, bar staff, and floor teams to act
Checking outdoor areas, smoking zones, and toilets regularly
Supporting anyone who may need help, especially at closing time
We encourage venues to revisit and share the following free resources:
Support on the Ground – Know Your Resources
Night Safety Marshals: patrolling city centre and beach areas every Friday & Saturday night
Beach Patrol: visible presence on the seafront
Safe Space (St Paul’s, West Street): drop-in for welfare and a hot drink on Friday and Saturday nights
BCRP Radio Network: share real-time concerns and alerts
Police (999 or 101): for serious or escalating situations
Together, We Keep Brighton Safe
This isn’t just a police matter — it’s a city-wide responsibility. All night-time staff have a role in noticing the signs, stepping in, and reporting matters more than you know.
See it. Say hello. Step in. Save someone.
Let’s keep building a night-time culture that’s safe, aware, and unwelcoming to those who seek to cause harm.