A St Leonards man has been jailed for rape on a girl.

Randy Tirbanie raped a 16-year-old girl who was known to him on 16 February, and suffocated her with a pillow.

The girl, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, has been supported by specially trained officers, as well as her family.

The incident, which took place at an address in St Leonards, was reported to police shortly after and Tirbanie was arrested on the day. He was later charged with two counts of rape and one count of suffocation.

Following a five-day trial at Lewes Crown Court, starting on 12 August, he was found guilty on all three counts.

Tirbanie, 43, of St Matthews Road, St Leonards was sentenced to 12 years and six months’ imprisonment when he appeared before Lewes Crown Court on 27 September.

DC Sally Coleman said: “Tirbanie breached the trust of his victim and carried out appalling crimes which will impact her for life.

“We are safeguarding the victim who showed huge amounts of bravery to help get Tirbanie convicted for the trauma and distress he caused.

“Sussex Police take all reports of rape and sexual assault seriously, and encourage victims to report any incidents to police.

“You will be heard, we will support you, and we will do everything we can to bring perpetrators to justice.”