Bradley Martin, a 29-year-old construction worker from Chandler Road in Bexhill, has been sentenced to 31 years for the repeated rape of a three-year-old child between April and October 2022. The horrifying crimes came to light when the child’s mother, noticing unexplained injuries, took the child to the hospital. Concerns raised by hospital staff prompted an immediate investigation by Sussex Police.

Martin’s arrest on October 26, 2022, revealed disturbing evidence on his phone, including searches like ‘how do police know if something has been penetrated?’ and ‘how many years for sex offenders in Bexhill?’ Additionally, 127 illegal images of extreme pornography involving both animals and humans were found.

Charged with three counts of raping a child under 13, Martin pleaded not guilty. However, on July 3, he was found guilty of each offence at Hove Crown Court. On September 29, during the sentencing at the same court, Martin received a 23-year prison term, with an additional eight years on extended licence.

In addition to the prison sentence, Martin will be on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life. He was also handed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, significantly restricting his access to children and digital devices.

Detective Constable Kelly Yates, of Hastings’ Safeguarding Investigations Unit, commended the courage and determination of the victim and their family throughout the challenging process. Expressing gratitude for their support, she emphasised that the steps taken would ensure Martin poses no further harm to the public.

For information on reporting possible child abuse or concerns for a child’s safety, Sussex Police provides guidance on their website.