Keith Williams, a 60-year-old man from Tintern Close, Eastbourne, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for raping and sexually abusing a young girl in Sussex. The abuse took place over several years and was only revealed in May 2020 when the victim confided in a family member, leading to police involvement.
The case was heard at Lewes Crown Court where Williams was found guilty of multiple offences, including four counts of rape of a girl under 13, sexual assault by penetration and touching, as well as child cruelty. The trial concluded on August 2, and sentencing was delivered at Hove Crown Court on September 20.
Detective Sergeant Nick Green from the Eastbourne Safeguarding Investigations Unit commended the victim’s bravery. He said, “She showed tremendous bravery and courage to report her experience to police.”
DS Green also emphasised the police commitment to tackling such crimes, stating, “We were determined to get justice for the victim and for other victims, to ensure that dangerous offenders are taken off our streets.”
Sussex Police continue to encourage victims of sexual abuse to come forward and access dedicated support services available online. Information on how Sussex Police addresses these serious crimes is also provided to support victims and the community.
Originally published by UKNIP.
