Lewes Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 367 verdicts at Lewes Crown Court (Lewes). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

September 2024 6 cases

Georgina Epitropou

Conspiracy to steal *

Sentence

2 years and 6 months imprisonment

Georgina Epitropou, 42, and her sister Laura stole high-value perfumes, make-up and other cosmetics from duty-free shops at Gatwick Airport, estimated to be worth at least £80,000, over a 10-month period up to September 2022. They sold the items via online marketplaces or direct to purchasers, making around £40,000. Laura took 21 flights from Gatwick, mainly to Edinburgh, with Georgina joining later. On one occasion, they stole 73 items worth almost £8,000. They were arrested boarding a flight to Belfast from Gatwick with stolen items worth almost £2,000 in their suitcase. The thefts funded their lavish lifestyles, including cosmetic surgery, and were done to order with significant planning.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal.

24 Sep 2024

Alex Reynolds

Arson *

Sentence

6 years and 3 months imprisonment with an extended licence period of 3 years

On 13 November 2023, Alex Reynolds set fire to a maisonette in St Mark's Close, Bexhill, causing significant damage to the property and the roof. Six fire engines attended the blaze. He was arrested and released under investigation. On 19 March 2024, he set fire to an empty industrial building in Theaklen Drive, St Leonards, leading to a fire service call-out with four engines. DNA evidence linked him to the scene, and he was arrested nearby. The arsons occurred a few miles apart, with Reynolds escalating his offending and risking lives.

Pleaded guilty to arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered at Lewes Crown Court on 17 May 2024, and to arson at Brighton Magistrates' Court on 17 July 2024. Deemed a dangerous offender; must serve at least two thirds of the custodial term before being eligible for parole.

13 Sep 2024

Ryan Evans

Murder *

Sentence

Life imprisonment with a minimum of 23 years

Ryan Evans murdered Holly Sanchez, a 32-year-old mother-of-five, at his bungalow in Oates Walk, Crawley, West Sussex, on May 13, 2023. She suffered multiple injuries during an abusive and controlling relationship. Neighbours reported incidents of Evans dragging her by the hair through the street and punching her in the face. Despite being on bail with conditions not to contact her, Evans continued his violent behaviour, leading to her death. Police had been called to prior incidents of abuse in March and April 2023.

Found guilty of murder, unlawful wounding, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and controlling and coercive behaviour. He was on police bail at the time of the murder and had denied the allegations.

13 Sep 2024

Thomas Crabtree

Rape *

Sentence

10 years imprisonment, 6 years on licence

Thomas Crabtree, 35, groomed a 13-year-old boy on Snapchat, posing as 'Will' and repeatedly sending him sexually explicit images. On Monday 3 April 2023, he drove from Bedford to Worthing, picked up the boy, drove him to a remote area near Goring Gap, and raped him. He then drove the boy around in silence before dropping him off in Worthing and returning to Bedford. The ordeal lasted several hours. After the attack, he blocked the victim on Snapchat and deleted all messages. The victim reported the attack to police, leading to Crabtree's arrest.

Pleaded guilty to all counts, including rape, assault by penetration, causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, sexual communication with a child, causing a child to watch a sexual act, meeting a child following sexual grooming, and abduction of a child. Placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.

12 Sep 2024

Kirolus Ramis

Assault causing actual bodily harm *

Sentence

32 months imprisonment

In the early hours of 4 September 2022, at an address in Goldstone Crescent, Hove, Kirolus Ramis punched a woman and repeatedly attacked her, causing serious injuries. He also assaulted a girl. The attack was described as vicious and shocking.

Pleaded guilty to assault causing actual bodily harm and two common assaults. The judge noted that Ramis appeared to be delaying the proceedings. No separate penalty for criminal damage.

10 Sep 2024

Anas Al Mustafa

Assisting unlawful migration *

Sentence

10 years imprisonment

Anas Al Mustafa trafficked seven people, including six men and one woman, in a concealed compartment of a specially-adapted van from Dieppe, France, to Newhaven, East Sussex, on February 16, 2024. The migrants were deprived of oxygen and water, leading to severe conditions such as dehydration, a possible heart attack, acute kidney injury, and a stroke for one man. They were discovered screaming for help during the ferry journey, prompting an emergency response. Crew members used an axe to free them from the compartment, which was extremely narrow and forced them to stand without movement.

Convicted of assisting unlawful migration. Pleaded not guilty and claimed ignorance of the migrants in the van. Judge Christine Laing KC ordered forfeiture of the van, telephone, and SIM card, and commented on the risks to national safety and exploitation of desperate people.

6 Sep 2024

August 2024 11 cases

Graham Head

Kidnap, Attempted Rape, and Sexual Assault *

Sentence

23 years imprisonment

Graham Head posed as a fake Uber driver to target vulnerable young women in Brighton. In August 2022, he picked up a 19-year-old woman and took her to a park, where he attempted to sexually assault her, causing injuries including bloodied knees, bruising, and grazes. In November 2022, he offered a free ride to a 25-year-old mother, then attempted to remove her clothing in his car, which contained items like latex gloves, Viagra, condoms, and a balaclava. He was apprehended after the victim memorised part of his personalised number plate and fought him off.

Convicted twice for the same offences; maintains innocence despite overwhelming evidence; described by the judge as a sexual predator who poses a significant risk to women; original sentence reimposed after appeal.

29 Aug 2024

Nigel Evendon

Participation in an Organised Crime Group *

Sentence

9.5 years imprisonment

Nigel Evendon was involved in a UK-wide organised drug supply operation, one of the biggest in Sussex. Police executed a warrant at his address in Eastbourne Road, Halland, near Lewes, on 26 February 2024, seizing 3kg of ketamine, 500g of cocaine, ecstasy (MDMA), multiple bags of cannabis, four bags of magic mushrooms, £700 in cash, and various offensive weapons including truncheons, knives, and firearms. The investigation began in 2023, and Evendon was arrested at the property.

Pleaded guilty to participation in an organised crime group, possession with intent to supply class A and B drugs, and possessing prohibited firearms and offensive weapons. Detective Sergeant Jason Vickers commented on the seriousness of the offences and the removal of illegal drugs and weapons from the streets.

29 Aug 2024

Rawad Bastawi

Rape *

Sentence

8 years imprisonment

Rawad Bastawi, 31, of no fixed address, raped and sexually assaulted a 13-year-old girl at a property in Whitehawk, Brighton, in December 2023. He plied the victim and her friends with alcohol and cannabis over a number of days, abusing their trust. He knew all three girls involved in the accusations. Officers from Sussex Police arrested him on 9 January 2024.

Convicted after a two-week trial of raping and sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl; acquitted of raping a 15-year-old girl and sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl. Placed on the sex offenders register and served with a sexual offences prevention order restricting contact with teenage girls. Did not plead guilty, forcing victims to give evidence.

24 Aug 2024

Thierry Piron

Assault and Theft *

Sentence

20 months imprisonment

Thierry Piron, 35, of no fixed address, committed an assault and a number of thefts across Crawley between April and August 2024. He was sentenced to 20 months imprisonment at Lewes Crown Court on 22 August 2024. He was also issued a three-year Criminal Behaviour Order with conditions not to enter certain stores in Crawley and across West Sussex.

Issued a three-year Criminal Behaviour Order with conditions not to enter certain stores in Crawley and West Sussex.

22 Aug 2024

Samuel Phillips

Rape and sexual assault *

Sentence

2 years imprisonment

Samuel Phillips, 30, sexually abused two girls at his home in Worthing between 2005 and 2010 when he was in his early teens. The offences included two counts of rape, six counts of sexual assault, and five counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. One victim recorded his confession, and Phillips later called the police himself. The judge described the severe psychological harm suffered by both victims and noted that Phillips had lied when originally investigated but had since acknowledged his actions.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of rape, six counts of sexual assault and five counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. Defendant had himself been sexually abused as a child and suffered psychiatric problems. Judge took into account that Phillips was a child when he committed the offences and had stayed out of trouble as an adult. A sexual harm prevention order and restraining order were imposed for 10 years.

21 Aug 2024

Olsjan Titini

Drug dealing *

Sentence

3 years youth custody

Titini, 19, was caught selling cocaine twice in four days. Police first spotted him in a black Smart Fortwo Pulse in Lascelles Terrace, Eastbourne, in the early hours of Wednesday 18 October. He was found again four days later in the early hours of Sunday 22 October in a red Renault Modus Privilege in Beachy Head Road. When arrested, he had cocaine, about £2,600 cash, a Stanley knife and a cigarette lighter designed to look like a revolver. He admitted having no driving licence or insurance. At trial he claimed he was coerced into dealing drugs and had been exploited by others.

Pleaded not guilty; convicted by jury of drug dealing, money laundering, possession of a knife in public and an imitation firearm. The judge reduced the sentence slightly due to his age, immaturity, and lack of a criminal record. Offences committed while on bail.

16 Aug 2024

Damien O'hare

Shoplifting *

Sentence

3 years and 3 months imprisonment

Damien O'Hare, 48, of no fixed address, committed 26 shoplifting offences between March and June 2024, predominantly at a Co-op in Dorsten Square, Bewbush, Crawley, as well as a number of other stores. He would enter the store, take goods from shelves, and leave without paying in full view of staff. On some occasions when challenged, he threatened to violently assault a female member of staff. He was already subject to a criminal behaviour order banning him from entering any Co-op store in Sussex. He pleaded guilty at Crawley Magistrates' Court on 10 June 2024.

Pleaded guilty to 26 counts of shoplifting, 22 counts of breaching a criminal behaviour order, and one count of using insulting/threatening language. Offences occurred between March and June 2024, mostly targeting Co-op stores in Crawley. He was subject to a criminal behaviour order banning him from all Co-op stores in Sussex.

14 Aug 2024

Ian Ward

Affray, Assault, and Assaulting a Police Officer *

Sentence

8 months imprisonment, 8 months on licence

Ian Ward, part of a large crowd at a demonstration in Queens Road, Brighton on 7 August 2024, forced himself through a line of police officers and struck a member of the smaller group opposite, assaulting a female police officer in the process. He was identified from video footage and arrested on 11 August. He pleaded guilty to affray, assault, and assaulting a police officer.

Pleaded guilty to all counts at Crawley Magistrates’ Court.

13 Aug 2024

William Jones

Burglary *

Sentence

2 years and 2 months imprisonment and £228 in costs

William Jones, 30, of Butts Field, Horsham, committed a series of burglaries, thefts, and frauds targeting vulnerable people between February and April 2024. He broke into properties by forcing entry through gates and fences, stealing items worth around £500 to £200, and defrauded elderly victims by offering gardening work and demanding upfront payments, including tricking a 75-year-old woman into withdrawing £1,000. He also stole shotguns from another property and was involved in additional thefts and driving offences.

Pleaded guilty to all charges. Was on licence for similar offences previously.

7 Aug 2024

Laurence Harvey

Arranging the sexual exploitation of a child under 13 *

Sentence

56 months imprisonment

Laurence Harvey, 65, of Searles View in Horsham, sent £46,467 to people in the Philippines between 2 September 2011 and 9 August 2021 in return for indecent images of children. He communicated directly with children, asking them to perform sexual acts, and in one instance paid a woman for images of a child she claimed was her daughter. He claimed the money was for charitable purposes or for adult online sex acts. He was arrested in May 2022 and devices seized contained sexual images and communications with children. He pleaded guilty to arranging the commission of a child sex offence, possession of an indecent photograph of a child, two counts of making an indecent photograph of a child and two counts of arranging the sexual exploitation of a child under 13.

Pleaded guilty to all charges. Received a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order restricting digital device use, internet access, and travel to the Philippines.

6 Aug 2024

Daniel Isaacs

Burglary *

Sentence

18 months imprisonment

Daniel Isaacs, 31, of Marine Parade, Eastbourne, burgled Profile, a clothes shop in Duke’s Lane, Brighton, on Monday 12 May 2024, in an early morning smash and grab. Designer clothes and other items worth about £40,000 were stolen. Sussex Police traced a car linked to the burglary and Isaacs was arrested in Nottingham. Around half of the items stolen have been recovered.

Pleaded guilty to burglary. Worked with other people.

1 Aug 2024

July 2024 9 cases

Ty Medland

Murder *

Sentence

25 years imprisonment

Ty Medland, 26, of Cavell Avenue, Peacehaven, murdered his estranged wife Sam Medland, 24, by stabbing her several times on the evening of Sunday 17 February 2024 in Queen Square, Brighton, outside the offices of Domestic and General where she worked. He was arrested at the scene by Sussex Police. She died from her wounds at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton. The attack occurred in a public area with bystanders attempting to intervene.

Pleaded guilty to manslaughter but was convicted of murder by jury after a 10-day trial. Judge Anthony Scott-Gall presided. Prior denial of murder charge on 31 May.

29 Jul 2024

Kiarash Majidi

Arson and criminal damage *

Sentence

3 years and 4 months imprisonment

Kiarash Majidi and Michael Rodgers carried out a series of arson and criminal damage offences across East Sussex in August 2023, smashing windows at multiple properties, setting a car on fire, slashing a swimming pool and causing a basement flood. They were caught after a resident reported them and police found weapons and petrol in their vehicle.

Pleaded guilty to all criminal damage charges and arson.

27 Jul 2024

Alan Burren

Arson *

Sentence

1 year and 8 months imprisonment

Alan Burren, 48, started fires at the KFC restaurant in South Road, Haywards Heath, on November 3 and March 10. On November 3, he entered the toilets, started a fire, and left without alerting staff. On March 10, he started another fire in the toilets, which was discovered by a member of the public amid smoke. Additionally, on January 5, he damaged a room at the Premier Inn in Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath, by using a permanent marker on mirrors and sofas and cutting tools on furniture. He was arrested near Clair Park after the March incident and was found in possession of cocaine, though that was handled in a separate hearing.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of arson and one count of criminal damage. Detective Inspector Lee Simmonds noted that Burren's actions were reckless and put lives at risk, and he was linked to the crimes via CCTV evidence.

25 Jul 2024

Jack Reeder

Robbery *

Sentence

2 years and 10 months imprisonment

On May 10, Jack Reeder, while heavily intoxicated, entered a shop in Shoreham and stole a packet of crisps. He then entered a Co-op store in Ham Road, demanded money from the till, and threatened a shop worker with a hammer before running away. Witnesses saw him eating breakfast in a nearby café and removing the hammer from a sock, after which he left the area via bus. He was later identified by witnesses and handed himself in following a public appeal.

Pleaded guilty to robbery and theft from a shop. He was heavily intoxicated at the time of the offence.

22 Jul 2024

Stephen Marsh

Indecent assault *

Sentence

9 years imprisonment

Stephen Marsh, 54, of Firle Road, Brighton, sexually abused teenage girls over a period of 21 years, grooming them as young as 10. He covertly filmed his victims in their homes, used his job as a nightclub doorman to befriend girls and gain their trust, and befriended victims' families for unsupervised access. He lured children into his home by offering to let them see and be photographed with his snakes and tortoises. Marsh was arrested in November last year.

Convicted by jury of four counts of indecent assault, having child porn and voyeurism after a seven-week trial. Admitted two counts of having extreme pornography relating to sex acts with animals at an earlier hearing on 22 June. Previously pleaded not guilty to having extreme pornography and two counts of having ammunition without a firearms licence, later changed plea to guilty.

22 Jul 2024

Christian Violi

Conspiracy to supply cocaine *

Sentence

2 years imprisonment, suspended for 2 years, and 180 hours unpaid work

Christian Violi worked as a driver for the Gesti county line, delivering cocaine supplied by Kristian Buqa to local customers in the Worthing area. The operation involved distributing an estimated 4kg of cocaine with a street value of up to £392,000.

Sentenced on 19 July 2024 by Judge Martin Huseyin at Lewes Crown Court.

19 Jul 2024

Shaun Clarke

Rape and other offences *

Sentence

24 years imprisonment (19 years in custody, 5 years on extended licence)

Shaun Clarke repeatedly raped and assaulted a woman over several years, controlling her actions and isolating her from friends. On 18 October 2023, police were called to a property in Southwick where Clarke was trying to gain entry, demanding money and making violent threats. The victim disclosed a history of physical and sexual violence. Some of the violence was witnessed by her young children. Clarke also demanded money from the victim. When arrested later that day, he assaulted a female police officer, injuring her hand. He was convicted of five counts of rape, two counts of assault, engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour, and assaulting an emergency worker.

Deemed dangerous; must serve at least two-thirds of the custodial term before release. Indefinite sexual harm prevention order and restraining order imposed.

12 Jul 2024

Wade Ian Crosweller

Wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm *

Sentence

4 years imprisonment

Wade Ian Crosweller, 23, from The Crestway in Hollingdean, Brighton, attacked a 30-year-old man from Hove in Meeting House Lane, Brighton, shortly after midnight on 21 November 2023. He struck the victim several times from behind with a wheel brace, fracturing his skull, causing a serious laceration to his right ear, and various cuts and bruises. The assault was described as a particularly violent attack.

Admitted wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and having a wheel brace as an offensive weapon. Received a one-year sentence for the offensive weapon charge to run concurrently. Ordered to pay a £120 victim surcharge.

9 Jul 2024

James Wadhawan

Engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13-15 and child abduction *

Sentence

10 years imprisonment

James Wadhawan, 35, of Penalverne Crescent in Penzance, was issued a Child Abduction Warning Notice in January 2024 following reports of inappropriate contact with a teenage girl. On March 9, 2024, he was seen with the victim in Lancing and arrested. He was released on bail with strict conditions but was found with the girl again on March 13, 2024, on a bridge in Lancing, leading to his arrest. He was charged with two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13-15 and one count of child abduction, and remanded in custody.

Pleaded guilty to all charges. Given an indefinite restraining order against the victim and required to be a registered sex offender for life. Detective Chief Inspector Mehdi Fallahi described him as a predatory offender.

1 Jul 2024

June 2024 7 cases

Oliver Mcdonald

Strangulation and Assault *

Sentence

2 years and 9 months imprisonment, 10-year restraining order, and £228 surcharge

On September 3, 2023, the victim informed Oliver McDonald that she wanted to end their relationship due to his aggressive behaviour over the previous six months. The following day, as she was collecting her belongings from their shared residence in Eastbourne, McDonald approached her, became violent, strangled, punched, and kicked her, and took her mobile phone. She managed to escape, drove to a local police station to report the incident, and McDonald followed her there, leading to his arrest.

Initially pleaded not guilty but changed to guilty on all counts. PC Daniel Turk highlighted the severity of the offender's actions and the victim's bravery and cooperation.

25 Jun 2024

Shy Ponsonby-Way

Possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and possession of a knife *

Sentence

3 years and 4 months imprisonment

Shy Ponsonby-Way, aged 19, was caught dealing heroin and crack cocaine in central Brighton in January 2024 and again near Eastbourne Pier in March 2024. On 4 January 2024, officers observed him completing a drug deal in an alleyway behind North Street and found 90 wraps of crack cocaine and heroin concealed in his groin, a burner phone, and cash. On 11 March 2024, he was stopped in Elms Avenue, Eastbourne, again with class A drugs and a lock-knife. Additional offences included possession of a knife in Trafalgar Street, Brighton in July 2023, assaulting a police officer in custody in October 2022, and assaulting Acting Sergeant Stacey Soffe in George Street, Brighton on 5 August 2023 during Pride celebrations.

Admitted four counts of possessing class A drugs with intent to supply, two counts of possessing a knife or bladed article, two counts of assaulting emergency workers, and one count of possessing criminal property. Sentenced by Judge Martin Huseyin.

21 Jun 2024

Wayne Metcalfe

Causing death by dangerous driving *

Sentence

six months in prison, suspended for two years

Wayne Metcalfe caused the death of 34-year-old motorcyclist Jacek Sawa by dangerous driving on Davigdor Road in Hove at 6.25am on 28 August 2023. The crash involved Metcalfe's car and Sawa's motorcycle; Sawa died at the scene. Metcalfe, aged 69 from Clifton Road, Newhaven, was driving with defective eyesight.

Pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and driving with defective eyesight. Disqualified from driving for two years and ordered to do 100 hours community service.

21 Jun 2024

Michael Cole

Inciting sexual activity with a child *

Sentence

4 years imprisonment

Between May and October 2023, Michael Cole, 30, of Chestnut Way, Newhaven, posed online as 'Jenny Lane', a 19- to 20-year-old woman from Essex moving to Brighton to study, to trick schoolboys aged 13 to 15 from the Newhaven and Seaford area into sending compromising photographs. He blackmailed them by threatening to share the images unless they sent more. Cole used social media like Facebook and Skype, sending over 50 friend requests. One victim was lured to Cole's home where sexual activity occurred. His aim was to collect erotic photographs for his own gratification, targeting mostly heterosexual boys by deception and introducing his real self to a gay boy.

Pleaded guilty to 13 sex offences at an earlier hearing, including 11 offences of inciting sexual activity with nine boys and two counts of having an indecent image of a child. Issued with a sexual harm prevention order for life and will be a registered sex offender for life.

19 Jun 2024

Anthony Bowles

Burglary *

Sentence

4 years imprisonment

Anthony Bowles, 31, of Preston Road, Brighton, broke into five houses in Brighton at the start of 2024 using a 'creeper' method, targeting homes late at night or in the early hours while occupants slept. He was arrested by Sussex Police on 4 February 2024 after attempting to use a stolen bankcard, identified via CCTV. A search of his home recovered property linking him to four burglaries, with forensics connecting him to the fifth. Following investigation, he pleaded guilty.

Admitted burgling five properties. Arrested on 4 February after using a stolen bankcard, recognised from CCTV. Property recovered from his home linked him to four burglaries, forensics to another. Detective Sergeant Kate Witt commented on the 'creeper' style burglaries occurring late at night or early morning.

13 Jun 2024

Allan Finn

Supply of crack cocaine and cannabis *

Sentence

6 years imprisonment

Allan Finn, 32, a window cleaner from Westfield, was convicted of being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and cannabis after a two-day trial. He had denied the charges but was found guilty on Wednesday, June 12th.

Denied being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and cannabis but was found guilty following a two-day trial.

12 Jun 2024

James Farmer

Rape *

Sentence

six years imprisonment

James Farmer, 30, of Spracklands in Dinton, near Salisbury, targeted a vulnerable young woman while she was asleep at a property in East Sussex on May 8, 2020, during the coronavirus pandemic. He had consumed a cocktail of alcohol and drugs before raping her. The victim woke up during the attack, and Farmer told her not to report it, then fled when confronted, evading police. He turned himself in the next day but denied the crime initially. The attack left the victim with ongoing trauma, including nightmares, anxiety, and a loss of dignity and safety.

Pleaded guilty to rape after initially denying it. Had previous convictions for battery and drugs-related offences. Judge Mark van der Zwart noted his troubling childhood, risk to young women, and that he did not fully accept his actions. A Sexual Harm Prevention Order and restraining order were imposed, and he was placed on the sex offenders' register for life.

4 Jun 2024

May 2024 4 cases

Zahid Naseem

Murder *

Sentence

at least 19 years imprisonment

Zahid Naseem murdered high-class escort Christina Abbotts on her 29th birthday by bludgeoning her 13 times on the back of the head with a ceramic pestle in a flat she was house-sitting in Crawley, West Sussex, on 24 May 2024. The killing was fuelled by cocaine and champagne. Naseem met Ms Abbotts via adultwork.com under her pseudonym Tilly Pexton. They were last seen on CCTV buying Veuve-Clicquot at an Asda supermarket. After the murder, Naseem remained in the flat for 12 hours, drinking, taking drugs, and sending explicit photos to other escorts. Police discovered Ms Abbotts' body on 26 May 2024 after concerned friends alerted them when she missed her birthday party.

Pleaded self-defence but found guilty of murder by jury after four hours of deliberations. Judge Christine Laing noted his stress from unsettled work, obsession with escorts, and out-of-control drugs and alcohol addiction.

30 May 2024

Rhys Hedges

Manslaughter *

Sentence

8 years imprisonment minus time served

Rhys Hedges, 17, from Hellingly, approached 20-year-old Billy Ripley during an altercation in Vicarage Field, Hailsham, on August 29, 2024. The two, who were known to each other, engaged in a verbal exchange that escalated in an alleyway near The Hailsham Club. Hedges stabbed Ripley once in the chest, leading to Ripley's collapse and death at the scene despite efforts by paramedics. Hedges fled but was quickly arrested at an address in Hailsham and remanded in custody.

Found not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter following a trial.

23 May 2024

Ian Elliott

Rape *

Sentence

27 years imprisonment

Ian Elliott, a 71-year-old serial sex offender, admitted to carrying out a campaign of rape and other offences against four vulnerable men. He plied his victims with alcohol and/or drugs to facilitate the crimes, with one victim being raped 11 times. The offences included premeditated abuse of his position in society, and he attempted to pervert the course of justice by trying to destroy evidence. The crimes spanned a period where victims recalled little due to their impaired state.

Pled guilty to 43 offences, including 37 sex offences. No previous convictions. The sentence was increased by the Court of Appeal as it was deemed unduly lenient, with judges noting the premeditated nature of the crimes and abuse of vulnerable victims.

16 May 2024

Armin Mehdikhani-Sarvejahani

Murder *

Sentence

Life imprisonment

Armin Mehdikhani-Sarvejahani stabbed 17-year-old Mustafa Momand with a kitchen knife in broad daylight in central Brighton on October 5, 2023. Mustafa ran away from him before collapsing in the street.

Sentenced for the murder of Mustafa Momand. He was 16 years old at the time of the offence.

2 May 2024

April 2024 2 cases

Richard Slater

Attempted robbery *

Sentence

5 years imprisonment

Richard Slater, a 62-year-old labourer from Walmer Crescent, Bevendean, Brighton, attempted to rob the Coombe Road Convenience Store at about 7.30am on Sunday 21 October 2023. He threatened shopkeeper Tario Rahman with a 6in knife and demanded money while wearing a hood. Mr Rahman, 45, who was alone in the shop, fought off the raider using a chair leg. Slater fled empty-handed but took the chair leg, which he dumped in a nearby alleyway.

Convicted of attempted robbery and possession of a knife. The court regarded the offence seriously due to the use of a knife against a lone shopkeeper.

29 Apr 2024

Ergest Tarja

Conspiring to supply cocaine *

Sentence

six years and six months imprisonment

Ergest Tarja, 31, an Albanian national who had been in the UK using false IDs, led a gang that formed part of a complex network supplying around 20 kilograms of cocaine between London and Sussex over a period of two to three years. He used a special EncroChat phone to send and receive encrypted calls and messages to organise the buying and selling of cocaine, including helping to sell 5 kilograms between March 2020 and April 2021. His involvement was uncovered through messages accessed by French Police experts.

Already serving a four-year sentence for other offences. The sentence was later referred to the Court of Appeal and increased to nine years as it was deemed unduly lenient.

25 Apr 2024

March 2024 11 cases

Robert Parr

Rape *

Sentence

18 months probation order

Robert Parr, of Honeysuckle Drive, Bognor, raped Tina Roper in Surrey in 1973.

Found guilty of raping her in 1973.

26 Mar 2024

Hamza Adanir

Possession with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs *

Sentence

18 months imprisonment

Hamza Adanir, 26, of The Green, Ealing, was spotted by police on patrol being flagged down by a member of the public in Sillwood Street, Brighton in February. Adanir and his customer entered a property together, and within 10 seconds, Adanir reemerged. Officers detained and searched him, finding ketamine, cocaine, cannabis, and cash in his possession. He was arrested for possession with intent to supply.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply a Class A drug and two counts of possession with intent to supply a Class B drug.

24 Mar 2024

Sidney Thorpe

Rape *

Sentence

14 years imprisonment

Sidney Thorpe, 76, originally from Brighton but who had moved to Newhaven, carried out a series of rapes and sexual assaults on two girls and a boy aged between 4 and 16 between 1965 and 1980. The victims, now grown up, contacted police two years ago, leading to the investigation.

Found guilty by jury of ten counts of rape, eight counts of indecent assault, one count of gross indecency and three counts of child cruelty. Sentencing brings to an end a protracted and complex police inquiry started two years ago.

23 Mar 2024

Steven Morley

Conspiracy to supply class A, B and C drugs *

Sentence

14 years imprisonment

Steven Morley, 45, of Cherry Way, Felbridge, East Grinstead, used EncroChat handle 'incrediblehorse' to offer supply of almost 300kg of drugs including cocaine, ketamine, cannabis, amphetamine, and ecstasy during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. He acted as a middleman in a sophisticated operation involving production, supply, and importation of about 800kg of drugs worth millions, and ran a cannabis production setup. Arrested in October 2024 as part of Operation Winehouse by Sussex Police.

Pleaded guilty after trial began; previous convictions for cultivating cannabis, drug dealing, and fraud; possessed £184,000 cash and an unlicensed firearm at arrest; invested over £100,000 in cannabis production operation.

17 Mar 2024

Ioannis Melitsis

Conspiracy to supply class A, B and C drugs *

Sentence

12 years imprisonment

Ioannis Melitsis, also known as Yiannis Melitsis, 48, of Hove Park Villas, Hove, used EncroChat handle 'metalica' to offer supply of almost 300kg of drugs including cocaine, ketamine, cannabis, amphetamine, and ecstasy during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. He acted as a middleman in a sophisticated operation involving production, supply, and importation of about 800kg of drugs worth millions. Arrested in June 2023 as part of Operation Winehouse by Sussex Police.

Pleaded guilty after trial began; previous conviction for possession of cocaine; subject to a three-year driving ban after being caught driving under the influence of cocaine; held drug meetings near Hove railway station and car wash; evidence showed genuine offers to supply drugs.

17 Mar 2024

Hafiz Irfan

Conspiracy to supply class A, B and C drugs *

Sentence

9 years imprisonment

Hafiz Irfan, 44, of Winchester Road, Tilgate, Crawley, used EncroChat handle 'snowtart' to offer supply of 73kg of drugs including cocaine, ketamine, cannabis, amphetamine, and ecstasy during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. He acted as a middleman in a sophisticated operation involving production, supply, and importation of about 800kg of drugs worth millions. Arrested in June 2023 as part of Operation Winehouse by Sussex Police.

Pleaded guilty after trial began; previous convictions for possession of cannabis and possession of cocaine with intent to supply; involved in separate cannabis dealing operation as recently as last year.

17 Mar 2024

Mitch Moon Mellor

Conspiracy to supply class A, B and C drugs *

Sentence

13.5 years imprisonment

Mitch Moon Mellor, 44, of Warnham Rise, Brighton, used EncroChat handle 'speedyballoon' and later 'easternotter' to arrange the supply of 135kg of drugs including cocaine, ketamine, cannabis, amphetamine, and ecstasy during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. He acted as a middleman in a sophisticated operation involving production, supply, and importation of about 800kg of drugs worth millions. Arrested in June 2023 as part of Operation Winehouse by Sussex Police.

Pleaded guilty after trial began; no previous drug convictions but prior drink driving; father of three running a food delivery business; involved in separate cannabis operation.

17 Mar 2024

Joseph Clinch

Burglary *

Sentence

11 years imprisonment

Joseph Clinch, 31, of Springhill Road, Bexhill, along with Xavier Montag and Reggie Burgess, broke into a property in Vernon Terrace, Brighton, on 9 June 2023, stealing 2.5kg of cocaine, 6.5kg of cannabis resin, and a large quantity of psilocybin. They had planned the burglary, purchasing tools such as a spade, pliers, and a screwdriver beforehand, and made multiple attempts before succeeding. The group was stopped by police in Brighton later that day, where the drugs were found in their car.

Pleaded guilty to burglary and having class A and B drugs with intent to supply.

16 Mar 2024

Reggie Burgess

Burglary *

Sentence

1 year imprisonment

Reggie Burgess, 19, of Old London Road, Hastings, along with Joseph Clinch and Xavier Montag, broke into a property in Vernon Terrace, Brighton, on 9 June 2023, stealing 2.5kg of cocaine, 6.5kg of cannabis resin, and a large quantity of psilocybin. They had planned the burglary, purchasing tools such as a spade, pliers, and a screwdriver beforehand, and made multiple attempts before succeeding. The group was stopped by police in Brighton later that day, where the drugs were found in their car.

Pleaded guilty to burglary.

16 Mar 2024

Xavier Montag

Burglary *

Sentence

2 years and 2 months imprisonment

Xavier Montag, 35, of Doleham Hill, Doleham, near Hastings, along with Joseph Clinch and Reggie Burgess, broke into a property in Vernon Terrace, Brighton, on 9 June 2023, stealing 2.5kg of cocaine, 6.5kg of cannabis resin, and a large quantity of psilocybin. They had planned the burglary, purchasing tools such as a spade, pliers, and a screwdriver beforehand, and made multiple attempts before succeeding. The group was stopped by police in Brighton later that day, where the drugs were found in their car.

Pleaded guilty to burglary and having class B drugs with intent to supply.

16 Mar 2024

Shane Brett

Theft of a motor vehicle *

Sentence

26 months imprisonment

Shane Brett stole an Asda van from Sovereign Harbour Retail Park in Pevensey Bay Road, Eastbourne, at around 6.20am on Friday 30 January 2024. He led police on a chase and was stopped in The Fairway, Newhaven. A drugs wipe showed he tested positive for cocaine. He was arrested and charged the next day with theft of a motor vehicle, burglary other than a dwelling, driving a motor vehicle dangerously, and driving without third party insurance.

Pleaded guilty to all charges. Banned from driving for four years.

12 Mar 2024

Disclaimer: The information on this page is compiled from publicly available court records and published media reports. It is provided strictly for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as a definitive record of any individual's criminal history or legal status.

Offence names marked with an asterisk (*) reflect descriptions used in media reporting and may not correspond to the formal legal charge or indictment. Sentencing details are as reported and may be subject to subsequent appeal, variation, or correction by the courts.

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182 High St, Lewes BN7 1YB, Lewes, BN7 1YB, United Kingdom

+441273480400

Wheelchair accessible entrance

Monday - Friday: 08:30 - 16:30

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About Lewes Crown Court

Lewes Crown Court, located in Lewes, is a Crown Court that handles serious criminal cases including murder, rape, robbery, and other indictable offences. With 367 sentencing records in our database, it is one of the Crown Courts serving the Lewes area. Crown Courts sit with a judge and jury, and have the power to impose the full range of sentences available under UK law.

The court can be found at 182 High St, Lewes BN7 1YB, BN7 1YB.

Accessibility provisions at this court include wheelchair accessible entrance.

For enquiries about cases heard at this court, you can contact the court by telephone on +441273480400.

All sentencing information published on this page has been sourced from publicly-available records and verified by our editorial team. If you believe any information is inaccurate or should be removed, you can submit a removal request directly from the relevant listing above.

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Lewes Crown Court Sentencing Results

Georgina Epitropou

Alex Reynolds

Ryan Evans

Thomas Crabtree

Kirolus Ramis

Anas Al Mustafa

Graham Head

Nigel Evendon

Rawad Bastawi

Thierry Piron

Samuel Phillips

Olsjan Titini

Damien O'hare

Ian Ward

William Jones

Laurence Harvey

Daniel Isaacs

Ty Medland

Kiarash Majidi

Alan Burren

Jack Reeder

Stephen Marsh

Christian Violi

Shaun Clarke

Wade Ian Crosweller

James Wadhawan

Oliver Mcdonald

Shy Ponsonby-Way

Wayne Metcalfe

Michael Cole

Anthony Bowles

Allan Finn

James Farmer

Zahid Naseem

Rhys Hedges

Ian Elliott

Armin Mehdikhani-Sarvejahani

Richard Slater

Ergest Tarja

Robert Parr

Hamza Adanir

Sidney Thorpe

Steven Morley

Ioannis Melitsis

Hafiz Irfan

Mitch Moon Mellor

Joseph Clinch

Reggie Burgess

Xavier Montag

Shane Brett

About Lewes Crown Court

Nearby Courts

Brighton Magistrates Court

Worthing Magistrates Court

Crawley Magistrates Court

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