Security Breach at Gatwick Airport: Man Boards Plane Without Passport or Boarding Pass
In a shocking security lapse at Gatwick Airport, a man managed to evade all security checks and board a Norwegian Air flight bound for Copenhagen without showing a passport or boarding pass. The incident, which occurred on February 5th, marks the second such security breach in a week, raising serious concerns about airport safety protocols. […]
Sussex Police’s Campaign Exposes Holiday Drink-Driving Offences
The holiday season brings to light the ongoing issue of drink-driving, with several individuals facing legal repercussions A civil engineer found asleep in his work van at a roundabout was among several drivers convicted of drink-driving during Sussex Police’s Operation Limit campaign. The campaign, which took place in December, aimed to reduce incidents of driving under the influence during the holiday season. Notable convictions included a motorcyclist caught speeding after consuming alcohol the night before, a man who crashed into a traffic light while nearly three times over the limit, and a driver caught drinking in a layby after a supermarket visit.
Benjamin Davies, a 34-year-old civil engineer from Hailsham, was discovered asleep at the Rodmill roundabout in Eastbourne with hazard lights on. Following a public tip-off, police found him over the limit on December 2. In court, he was fined and disqualified from driving for six months.
Adrian Karas, a 39-year-old former chef from Hove, was stopped while speeding on a motorcycle without a valid license. After admitting to drinking whisky and cola before driving, he was fined and received a 14-month driving ban.
Benedict Glassock, 49, unemployed from Worthing, caused a collision in Worthing and was found to be over twice the legal alcohol limit. He received a two-year ban and was ordered to complete community service.
Ryan Mann, a 27-year-old construction worker, was stopped in Hastings and tested positive for alcohol, resulting in an 18-month driving ban and a fine.
Phillip Jenkins, a 76-year-old retiree, was seen drinking spirits from his car boot in a layby and was banned from driving for a year after being found over the limit.
Xhoana Lama, a 31-year-old art and fashion designer from Caterham, was involved in a minor collision in Crawley and, after testing positive for alcohol, was disqualified for one year and fined.
These cases are part of Sussex Police’s efforts to deter drink and drug driving, highlighting the consequences of such actions.
Drink or drug-driving was targeted as part of Sussex Police’s annual crackdown. (photo 2022 campaign) Head of the Roads Policing Unit (RPU) Superintendent Rachel Glenton said: “Those who commit these offences risk punishments which include being disqualified from driving, heavy fines, and even the risk of going to prison.
“These are nothing compared to the risk they pose of causing serious harm or even the death of themselves or other road users.
“Drink or drug driving is one of the main causes of people being killed or seriously injured on our roads.
“That is why we continue to urge people to take steps to prevent drink and drug-driving, such as persuading loved ones not to drive, and taking sensible steps such as pre-booking taxis or walking home.
“Our officers are determined to catch offenders to help keep our roads safe.”
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Urgent Operation at Newhaven Port Discovers People in Freezer Lorry
In an urgent collaborative operation this morning, Sussex Police, Border Force, and other critical emergency services were mobilized at Newhaven Port following the discovery of several people hidden in a freezer lorry aboard a ferry from Dieppe, France. The distressing find prompted an immediate and comprehensive response to ensure the safety and well-being of the individuals involved.
Upon the vehicle’s arrival at Newhaven Ferry Port, the situation quickly escalated, leading to the arrest of two men. One was detained on suspicions of facilitating illegal entry into the UK, while the other was apprehended for his unauthorized entrance into the country, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat illegal immigration and trafficking.
Sussex News Stock Image The health concerns for those found were significant, with six individuals requiring hospitalisation. The South East Coast Ambulance Service was quick to respond, with a spokesperson stating, “We were called at 9.40 am this morning to an incident at Newhaven Ferry Port.” The response included the Kent, Surrey, and Sussex Air Ambulance landing nearby to assist, along with the deployment of the Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART) and other emergency service partners.
An ambulance, escorted by a police van, was seen transporting some of the casualties from the port to the Royal Sussex County Hospital (RSCH) in Brighton, ensuring they received the necessary medical attention as quickly as possible.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Chichester Bus Assault: Police Seek New Individuals for Questioning
Police have released new images seeking individuals for questioning related to the assault of a teenage boy on a bus near Chichester. This development follows an incident where a 16-year-old boy was reportedly attacked by a man on the 700 bus line at the Market Road stop in Chichester, on the evening of August 20, around 6:30 pm. The bus route in question stretches between Chichester and Littlehampton.
Previously, images of a man were circulated by the police as part of their investigation. Read here
Now, they have made public a photo featuring two additional persons of interest about the assault.
The individuals sought for questioning include a woman seen wearing a white dress and a man characterized by tattoos on his arms, dressed in a black t-shirt and blue jeans.
Anyone with information or who recognizes the individuals in the images is encouraged to reach out to Sussex Police either through their online platform or by dialing 101, and reference the case number 1140 of August 10, 2023.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
2008 Grey Range Rover Stolen, Public Urged to Report Sightings
Police are seeking assistance from the public in locating a stolen vehicle reported missing. The vehicle in question, a grey 2008 Range Rover, was taken from a location in West Chiltington at around 4:50 pm on January 19.
PC Steve Lambeth, an officer with the Roads Policing Unit (RPU), highlighted that the vehicle is distinctive due to its unique spoiler and exhaust trims at the rear. It is also suspected to be using cloned registration plates and may currently be in the areas of Chichester, Walberton, Barnham, Slindon, or Petworth.
PC Lambeth urges the public to be on the lookout for the vehicle, especially if they notice a car that matches the description in a local street or car park where it does not normally belong.
The public is encouraged to report any relevant information to Sussex Police, either online or by calling 101, and reference the case number 907 of January 19.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Major Collision Causes Closure on A27 Westbound in West Sussex
A serious road traffic collision has led to the closure of the A27 westbound in West Sussex, causing significant disruption for motorists in the area. [block_2] The incident, which involved two cars, occurred between the A280 junction in Patching and the A284 junction near Arundel. The collision has resulted in a substantial debris field across […]
A27 Closed in East Sussex Following Road Traffic Collision
East Sussex commuters are facing significant disruptions after a road traffic collision prompted the closure of the A27 in both directions, affecting traffic flow between Hollingbury (after A23, Brighton) and A270 (Falmer). [block_2] The closure, resulting from a collision involving a car, has necessitated the deployment of emergency services, including Sussex Police, to manage the […]
Bexhill Assault: Sussex Police Seek Public’s Help
Sussex Police are requesting the public’s assistance in relation to an assault that left a man with facial injuries in Bexhill. The incident unfolded near the Sovereign Lighthouse Café on West Parade, around 7:45 am on Sunday, February 4.
The assailant, currently unidentified, reportedly attacked the victim by hurling a rock at him. The authorities are keen to communicate with individuals who saw the incident or possess any information that could aid in the investigation.
If you were in the area at the time or have any relevant details, Sussex Police encourages you to reach out. You can contact them online or call 101, mentioning the incident number 250 of 02/04.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Robbery Suspect Detained in Worthing: Matthew Maule Faces March trial
A suspect involved in a robbery and knife-related offences in Worthing has been detained pending trial.
Following a robbery alarm at a Findon Road petrol station in Worthing around 5am on February 8, police initiated an investigation. An employee reported a robbery at the location, noting the perpetrator had fled.
Additionally, there was a report of unrelated criminal damage in Worthing on the same day.
The police later apprehended a man for his alleged involvement in the robbery and for carrying a knife in public.
Sussex Police have charged 38-year-old Matthew Maule of Gravits Lane, Bognor, with one count of robbery, two counts of carrying a knife in public, and one count of criminal damage.
Maule was presented before Crawley Magistrates’ Court on February 12, where he was ordered to remain in custody.
He is scheduled to appear at Lewes Crown Court on March 11 to respond to the charges.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Dramatic Sea Rescue: Shoreham Lifeboat Dispatched to Save Man in Brighton
In response to an emergency call, the Shoreham lifeboat was dispatched at 14:00 by HM Coastguard following a 999 alert about a man spotted face down in the water near the west pier in Brighton. The situation prompted an immediate response from Sussex Police and the South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb), amid growing concerns for the individual’s safety.
Eyewitnesses at the scene relayed to Sussex News that a courageous member of the Brighton Seafront team’s beach patrol officers went into action, entering the water to rescue the distressed man. After approximately 15 minutes in the treacherous conditions, the patrol officer successfully brought the man to shore, where he was immediately attended to by waiting ambulance crews.
In a coordinated effort to ensure no other individuals were in danger, the Coastguard deployed additional resources, including teams from Shoreham and Newhaven Coastguard, Shoreham’s All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB), and Helicopter 175. These teams conducted a thorough search of the surrounding sea and shoreline. After confirming that no further victims were at risk, the emergency teams were stood down.
The rescued man received immediate medical attention from the scene’s medics before being transported to the Royal Sussex County Hospital (RSCh) in Brighton for further treatment. The current condition of the man remains uncertain.
A Sussex Police spokesperson confirmed the man’s rescue, stating, “The man was pulled from the water by beach patrol officers and taken to hospital by ambulance. His condition is unknown at this time. Police, coastguard teams, the coastguard helicopter, and the Shoreham RNLI lifeboat conducted a thorough search of the sea and shoreline to check for any additional victims. They were stood down after confirming no one else was found in the area.”
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Help Sussex Police with East Grinstead Assault Investigation
Sussex Police urgently seek public help to identify individuals linked to an assault in East Grinstead on December 9, 2023.
The incident, occurring near London Road around 12:30 am, has led to an active investigation. Authorities believe the assault took place between King Street and London Road and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
If you recognise the individuals or have any relevant details, please contact Sussex Police online or call 101, quoting reference 034 of 09/12. Your assistance is vital in solving this case.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Teenager Arrested Following Stabbing and Robbery in Hastings
Emergency services were called to the scene of a stabbing and robbery in Hastings at 3:30 PM on Saturday, 10 February. According to a spokesperson from Sussex Police, a 13-year-old boy became the victim of a violent assault at a bus stop located in Southdown Avenue, near the junction of Malvern Way.
The young victim, a resident of Hastings, reported that he was approached by two male individuals who demanded his coat and subsequently assaulted him, leading to a stab injury to his leg. Responding police and ambulance services provided immediate assistance, ensuring the boy was transported to the hospital for necessary treatment.
A Sussex Police spokesperson said “Following enquiries, a 13-year-old boy from St Leonards has been arrested on suspicion of robbery. He remains in custody at this time.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information which could help police with their enquiries is asked to contact Sussex Police online or call 101 quoting serial 814 or 10/02.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Two Men Convicted in Fatal Stabbing of Crawley Lifeguard
Two individuals have been found guilty of murder following the fatal stabbing of a man in Crawley.
Harrison Tomkins, 25, succumbed to multiple stab wounds after being attacked in an apartment complex on Arthur Road around 5:30 am on Sunday, August 13, last year.
Despite rapid response and emergency care from police and paramedics, Harrison, a lifeguard from Crawley, passed away due to his injuries. On Friday, February 9, at Chichester Crown Court, Kaydon Prior, 23, from Hazelwick Avenue, Crawley, and Jason Curtis, 22, from Lairdale Road, Lambeth, London, were convicted of his murder after a four-week trial.
In addition to the murder charge, both men were found guilty of possessing an offensive weapon, and Prior was further convicted of common assault.
The court was informed that Prior and Curtis had gone to Chelsea, London, for Curtis’ 22nd birthday celebration and returned to Crawley around 1:30 am. Discovering that Prior’s former girlfriend was in Crawley town center with another man, identified as Harrison Tomkins, they attempted to locate her, eventually reaching her apartment on Arthur Road.
Surveillance footage captured Prior leaving and then returning to the scene with a key to the woman’s apartment and a knife, planning to attack Harrison, whom he did not know personally, while Curtis kept watch.
The attack occurred at 5:30 am when Prior and Curtis entered the woman’s flat, leading to Harrison’s fatal stabbing.
A significant police search ensued, with Curtis found hiding in bushes nearby. Upon arrest, Curtis claimed ignorance of the murder, stating he had been out celebrating his birthday. Prior was apprehended at his residence shortly afterward, and both were charged and held in custody.
Sentencing for Prior and Curtis is scheduled for April 23.
Harrison Tomkins was fatally stabbed on 13 August 2023 Following conviction, Harrison’s family issued the following statement: “As a family, we are pleased with this result and feel justice has been served.
“Harrison hasn’t got a voice today, so we will speak on behalf of him.
“Firstly, we would like to thank Sussex Police and the Crown Prosecution Service for their fast-moving investigation, which has led to today’s result.
“Thank you also to our Family Liaison Officers, the ambulance service, the numerous witnesses and the jury for reaching their verdict today. And to all our family and friends who have supported us through such a horrific time.
“Harrison was innocent in all of this, taken by surprise and killed as he laid in bed, with no time to defend himself.
“We knew our son and he didn’t move in any of these circles or know this way of life.
“We were an amazing family, completely content, loving, supportive and protective. Except in August last year our family was destroyed that fateful day – the day I could not protect my son.
“Harrison, our first born son and brother to his two adoring sisters was just the greatest, he saw the best in everyone he met. He was a lover of life.
“Nothing said or done can help justify this senseless loss of life.
“Going through this trial has been as traumatic as the day we were told Harrison had been killed. We have had to relive it all over again, while listening to Prior and Curtis’ lies throughout.
“Since the omission of any remorse and that my son was murdered whilst asleep, my only hope is they serve the maximum sentence possible.
“They have not just changed my life for the worse, but so many people from my family and close friends, and I have to ask ‘was it worth it?’”
Case Officer Detective Police Constable Elliott Lander, of the Major Crime Team, said: “I am pleased that we have been able to get the justice that Harrison richly deserves today.
“I never got to meet Harrison, but I have learned so much about him and have seen how greatly loved he was by all who knew him.
“Harrison was killed in a frenzied attack that he had no chance to defend himself from. Prior and Curtis will both rightly now have to live with the devastating consequences of their actions for a considerable period of their lives in prison.
“On behalf of Harrison and all his family and friends, I’d like to thank those who came forward and supported our investigation.”
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Emma Vickers, of the Major Crime Team, said: “I echo Detective Police Constable Elliott Lander and would like to add how incredible Harrison’s family have been throughout what has been a terrible time for them.
“I commend them for the way they have conducted themselves and their incredible bravery throughout the trial.
“This was a horrendous and unproved attack on a young man who had simply been on a night out enjoying himself.
“Justice has been served today and our thoughts very much remain with Harrison and his family during this incredibly distressing time.”
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Two Drivers Banned After Racing at Over 130mph on A23
Two drivers were banned from driving after being caught speeding over 130mph on the A23.
Eris Shala and Ali Marzouq engaged in a high-speed race along the northbound section near Handcross.
The duo was intercepted by PC Mark Fox and PC Claire Harrison of the Dogs Unit, patrolling in an unmarked vehicle.
Speeding remains a leading cause of fatal and severe injuries on the roads.
Both individuals were convicted of dangerous driving at Crawley Magistrates’ Court.
The incident, involving reports of racing on the A23 on April 28 last year, saw PCs Fox and Harrison in pursuit, eventually catching up with the racing cars, identified as a BMW driven by Shala, 22, from Havestock Road, Camden, and a Toyota Supra driven by Marzouq, 23, from The Meadow Way, Harrow.
During the January 10 court session, Shala received an 18-month driving disqualification, 300 hours of community service, five mandatory rehabilitation sessions, and was ordered to pay £375 in court fees plus a £114 surcharge.
Marzouq faced similar consequences, with an 18-month disqualification, 250 hours of community service, 20 rehabilitation sessions, and identical financial penalties.
Superintendent Rachel Glenton, Head of Roads Policing for Sussex Police, said: “This was a shocking example of dangerous driving.
“The officers in the unmarked patrol car reached 130mph and were not able to catch up with them while they raced on the three-lane carriageway.
“Fortunately, the officers were able to stop both vehicles before they reached roadworks which removed two lanes on the carriageway.
“The defendants’ reckless driving put their own safety and the safety of other road users at risk. We know that one in three collisions in Sussex are caused as a result of speeding motorists.
“We are pleased that two dangerous drivers have been taken off our roads.”
Sergeant Matt Songhurst from the Dogs Unit said: “This case demonstrated the professionalism of our officers, who are not only highly-trained dog handlers, but also ready to assist colleagues across the force.”
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Urgent Appeal: Two Teenage Girls Missing from Yapton and Worthing
Sussex Police have issued an urgent appeal for information regarding the whereabouts of two teenage girls, Sapphire and Chelsea, aged 12 and 14 respectively, who have been reported missing from Yapton and Worthing. [block_2] The pair were last seen at 6:43 pm on the previous evening and have not been sighted since.
Woman Charged with Attempted Murder in Sussex Poisoning Case
A woman has been charged with attempted murder following a suspected poisoning incident in Sussex, sending shockwaves through the local community. [block_2] Jilumol George, aged 38, residing at Hunters Way, Uckfield, was arrested and subsequently charged with two counts of attempted murder, along with two counts of administering poison with the intent to endanger life […]
Epsom Murder Investigation: 44-Year-Old in Custody
In Epsom, a murder investigation is underway following the tragic discovery of a 47-year-old man deceased at a home, leading to the arrest of a 44-year-old individual. Surrey Police, responding to concerns for the man’s welfare, arrived at an Eleanor Avenue property around 9 pm on February 7, where the man was declared deceased. The […]
Woman and Two Children Hospitalised After Suspected Poisoning in Uckfield
A distressing incident unfolded in Uckfield, East Sussex, as a woman and two children were rushed to the hospital following an alleged poisoning at their home. The emergency services were alerted and swiftly responded to a call from Hunters Way on Thursday, where they found the 38-year-old woman alongside a nine-year-old and a 13-year-old in […]