Horsham Man Jailed for Brutal Child Abuse Spanning Nearly a Decade
A Horsham man has been locked up for 22 years after carrying out horrific child sex crimes from when his victim was just four years old.
Keith Clifton Sentenced for Shocking Abuse
Keith Clifton, 58, from Tanyard Close, was handed a 22-year sentence at Hove Trial Centre on Monday, 23 February. He was found guilty of multiple counts of rape and sexual assault against a young girl over nearly ten years.
Sussex Police revealed the abuse began when the girl was just four, escalating to rape on her fifth birthday. The horrific attacks continued regularly until she was around 13.
Victim’s Bravery Leads to Conviction
The victim, now in her twenties, bravely came forward in 2018. Her courage launched a complex police investigation. Specialist officers supported her while gathering evidence that led to Clifton’s arrest at home.
Clifton faced charges including six counts of rape of a child under 13, sexual assault by penetration, and sexual assault by touching. After a two-week trial ending 23 January, a jury convicted him on five rape counts, four sexual assault by penetration counts, and five sexual assault on a child counts. Some charges were left undecided by the jury.
Justice Served with Tough Restrictions
Clifton’s 22-year jail term was coupled with an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, cutting any chance of reoffending.
“This sentence reflects the immense harm caused to the victim,” said Detective Sergeant Ellen Jones. She praised the victim’s bravery in delivering her own impact statement, adding the woman now feels like she has “her life back.”
DS Jones also commended the investigating officers for their dedication in a “complex, distressing investigation.”
She urged anyone affected by sexual abuse, no matter how long ago, to come forward. “We will do all we can to get you the justice you deserve.”
