A man has been jailed for more than six years after launching a violent arson attack on his ex-partner’s home in Crawley, killing her beloved dog and leaving her with nothing.
Adrian West Sentenced at Lewes Crown Court
Adrian West, 61, of no fixed address, was sentenced to six years and three months in prison at Lewes Crown Court after pleading guilty to a string of serious offences. These included:
- Arson with intent to endanger life
- Criminal damage
- Non-fatal strangulation
- Common assault
- Two counts of actual bodily harm
The attacks were part of a prolonged campaign of violence against Louise Simpson, 53, throughout 2024.
Dog Killed in Blaze
On 14 September, West returned to Simpson’s Creasys Drive home in Crawley and set it on fire, knowing she and her three-year-old British Bulldog, Peggy, were inside. Louise escaped with help from neighbours, but Peggy tragically died.
“I lost everything—my home, my dog, and my peace of mind,” Simpson told the court.
“Peggy was my world. I used her ashes in a tattoo design. That’s all I have left.”
The blaze destroyed all her possessions, including irreplaceable sentimental items and her son’s childhood belongings. Simpson, who had no home insurance, said the financial and emotional damage was catastrophic.
Pattern of Abuse
The court heard that West had physically attacked Louise multiple times in 2024—strangling her, punching her, and kicking her. Just one day before the arson, he was arrested for damaging her doorbell camera but released after Simpson declined to provide a formal statement.
After the fire, he was rearrested, charged, and later pleaded guilty to all counts. He was sentenced on 2 May 2025.
Police and Fire Services Respond
Sussex Police and West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene, with bodyworn footage capturing the devastating aftermath of the fire.
Detective Inspector James Blackmore said:
“This was a shocking and cruel act of violence that could have resulted in far worse loss of life. We commend Louise’s courage in coming forward.”
Domestic Abuse Help
Authorities are urging victims of domestic abuse to seek help at the earliest opportunity. Support is available via:
- Refuge: https://www.refuge.org.uk
- Women’s Aid: https://www.womensaid.org.uk
- Police (non-emergency): Call 101
- Emergency: Always call 999
