Four Men Locked Up for Brutal Brighton Kidnap and Attack
Four thugs have been jailed for a savage kidnapping and assault in Brighton last November. The victim, a 46-year-old man, was left tied up, bleach-soaked, and battered in a terrifying attack. Justice was served at Hove Crown Court on Friday, 17 October 2025.
Victim Dragged Into Car in Broad Daylight
The horror unfolded on 5 November 2022 at just before 4pm in Whitehawk. Witnesses saw the victim forcefully dragged into a car on Chiddingly Close. Hours later, police found him dumped in North Drive, hands bound, clothes ripped, and reeking of bleach. He had been brutally beaten.
Burglary Links and Forensic Evidence Crack the Case
Police quickly established the attack was no random act. It was tied to two local burglaries in Hove and Brighton. A mix of CCTV footage, phone data, forensic tests, and eyewitness accounts nailed the gang behind it.
- Stephen Marsh, 42, Firle Road, Brighton
- William Westein, 29, Shanklin Road, Brighton
- Harry Avis, 27, Swanborough Drive, Whitehawk
- Regan White, 22, Firle Road, Brighton
Another man, Frankie Whittington, 25, was charged but later cleared.
DNA from a balaclava, saws, and knives found in a hired van linked nearly all the men to the crime. They faced charges in July 2024 including burglary, kidnap, false imprisonment, and grievous bodily harm with intent.
Guilty Verdict and Prison Sentences
After a three-week trial in early 2025, the four men were found guilty on all charges and locked up immediately.
“This was a terrifying ordeal for the victim. The sentences handed down today reflect the severity of these crimes and our commitment to bringing perpetrators of such serious offences to justice,” said Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Jones.
Sussex Police have urged the community to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity to keep Brighton safe.
