Alex Patel-Wills, 26, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison following his conviction for serious sexual offences against five women, including students at the University of Sussex. Lewes Crown Court imposed a 19-year custodial sentence along with a six-year extended licence period upon his release.
The offences took place between 2018 and 2021 across Brighton, the University of Sussex campus, and London. The case came to light after a woman reported being raped in a flat in Brighton in October 2021. Subsequent investigations by specialist detectives revealed four additional attacks as more victims came forward.
The attacks included one woman who was repeatedly raped and sexually abused during her teenage years, another victim targeted while vulnerable in a London flat, a sexual assault on the university campus in 2020, and a rape at Patel-Wills’ home in Brighton.
Patel-Wills faced charges including five counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and two counts of assault by penetration. The jury found him guilty of four rapes, two sexual assaults, and one assault by penetration, while acquitting him on two charges. The judge criticised Patel-Wills for showing no remorse for his actions.
The victims gave powerful impact statements describing the profound and lasting trauma and mental health difficulties caused by the assaults.
Sussex Police commended the victims for their bravery, highlighting that their courage was vital in securing justice. The police emphasised that all reports of sexual violence are taken seriously and thoroughly investigated.
The University of Sussex strongly condemned the attacks and stated it is reviewing safeguarding measures to better protect students. Detectives encouraged anyone affected by sexual violence to report incidents immediately and seek specialist support services.
Originally published by UKNIP.
