A Chichester man who subjected five young women to a shocking campaign of physical, sexual and emotional abuse has been convicted at Portsmouth Crown Court.
George de Bathe, 25, of North Mead, Chichester, was found guilty of multiple offences, including six counts of rape, actual bodily harm (ABH), sexual assault, false imprisonment, and coercive and controlling behaviour.
Abusive Campaign Between 2015 and 2019
The offences took place between 2015 and 2019, during which de Bathe entered into separate relationships with five victims—teenagers at the time—who are now in their twenties.
During these relationships, he systematically:
- Dictated who the victims could see
- Controlled what they wore and where they worked
- Tracked them using their mobile phones
- Threatened them with knives
- Locked victims inside cars and drove dangerously
- Physically assaulted victims, with some incidents resulting in unconsciousness
Four of the women reported being raped or sexually assaulted, some on multiple occasions.
Brave Victims Lead to Justice
The case came to light in April 2018 when one woman reported her experience to Sussex Police. She also encouraged other survivors connected to de Bathe to come forward, sparking a major investigation.
Following a meticulous inquiry, detectives identified four additional victims and gathered extensive evidence against de Bathe. In January 2024, he was charged with a total of 24 offences.
On 29 April 2025, the jury found him guilty on all but one charge. He was acquitted of one count of ABH.
De Bathe will be sentenced on Friday, 11 July 2025 at Portsmouth Crown Court.
Police and CPS Praise Victims’ Courage
Detective Constable Jon Petroulas, leading the case, stated:
“George de Bathe demonstrated a disturbing pattern of manipulating, isolating, and abusing women. The bravery of these victims has led to him finally being held accountable.”
DC Maddie Ursell highlighted the importance of Clare’s Law, which allows individuals to check whether their partners have a violent past:
“This case is a clear reminder of how vital early interventions can be.”
Karen Cushing from the Crown Prosecution Service added:
“Despite de Bathe’s threats, these courageous women stood firm. Their strength made this conviction possible.”
Support Available
Anyone affected by domestic abuse is urged to contact Sussex Police, or reach out to support services including Refuge, Women’s Aid, or the National Domestic Abuse Helpline.
