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 […]
“Show this creature the respect it deserves” council urges after whale found washed up on beach
A spokesperson for Arun District Council is calling on the public to demonstrate reverence towards a deceased whale that was discovered washed up on a Littlehampton beach earlier today. The plea for respect comes after images depicting the stranded whale, believed to measure nearly five meters in length, were shared with UKNIP [block_2] Photographs of […]
Search Ongoing for Car Crash Culprits in Hove, Sussex
Sussex Police are on the lookout for the occupants of a car that crashed into a bus shelter in Goldstone Villas, Hove, at about 7:40 pm on Tuesday, 6 February.
Photo – ImJustBrighton / Sussex News Despite the potential for harm, no injuries have been reported following the incident. The vehicle’s occupants had departed from the scene by the time officers arrived.
Police efforts to track down those involved are ongoing,
S Spokesperson for Sussex police said “No injuries were reported and attempts are being made to locate any occupants of the vehicle, who left the scene before officers arrived.”
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Urgent Appeal: Sussex Police Searching for Missing Teenager from Horsham
Sussex Police are urgently appealing for information regarding the whereabouts of Cayden, a 14-year-old girl who has been reported missing from Horsham. Concerns for her welfare are growing, prompting authorities to enlist the public’s assistance in locating her. [block_2] Cayden was last seen at 10:15 am on Sunday, February 4, and has not been seen […]
Appeal After Boy, 16, Assaulted in Worthing
Police are seeking information from the public regarding an incident of assault that occurred on Littlehampton Road in Worthing. According to reports, a 16-year-old boy was forcefully knocked off his bicycle by an unidentified male around 9 am on Monday, January 15.
The individual depicted in the photograph is thought to be of significant interest to the investigation.
Should you have any knowledge of the man in question, or possess any relevant details, you are encouraged to reach out to Sussex Police either through their online platform or by dialing 101, referencing case number 258 of 01/15.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Guilty Motorist Jailed: Tragic Floodwater Drink-driving Incident in Bognor
James Doyle, a 57-year-old motorist from Fir Tree Way, Bognor, faced sentencing after driving his car into floodwaters in North Bersted Street, Bognor, while significantly over the drink-drive limit. This incident necessitated a dramatic rescue operation where officers had to wade into the water to conduct a breath test, later facilitated by public members offering kayaks for the officers to use.
Doyle pleaded guilty to drink-driving at Worthing Magistrates’ Court on December 12, 2023, following his arrest on November 15, 2023. At the time of the incident, he was found to have 120 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath—over three times the legal limit of 35 microgrammes.
Photo – Sussex Police Drink-driving poses a grave risk on the roads, significantly contributing to fatalities and serious injuries. Acknowledging the severity of Doyle’s actions, the court handed down a sentence of eight weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, on February 5. In addition, Doyle received a driving ban for 29 months and was ordered to pay fines and costs totaling £239.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Urgent Appeal for Witnesses in Eastbourne Vandalism Case
Authorities are seeking assistance in a case of vandalism involving nine vehicles on Edward Road, Eastbourne, in front of business properties.
The event occurred around 2 pm on Thursday, February 1, affecting both new and staff vehicles at the location.
The police have initiated an inquiry and are calling for witnesses or anyone with relevant information to step forward.
Specifically, they have released a photo of a man they are looking to identify as part of their investigation.
If you recognize the individual or have any information on his location, you are encouraged to contact Sussex Police via their online platform or call 101, mentioning reference number 735 of 01/02.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Man Charged in Eastbourne Fatal Traffic Incident
Following a detailed investigation into a deadly traffic incident, a man has been charged with causing death by reckless driving.
The incident occurred on Upperton Road in Eastbourne on July 26 of the previous year, where emergency services were dispatched to a site of a crash between a vehicle and a pedestrian at the crossroad with Ocklynge Road.
Tragically, the collision led to the death of 75-year-old Andy Forrest, an Eastbourne local, due to sustained injuries.
In the wake of the incident, Police officers issued a call for witnesses and information under Operation Broomfield.
Sussex Police have now reported that Sharon Abraham, a 27-year-old student residing on Compton Street in Eastbourne, has been formally charged related to the fatal event.
Abraham is accused of causing death by reckless driving, along with charges for not stopping at the scene and not reporting the incident after being involved in a road traffic accident.
He is set to appear at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on February 29 to face these charges.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Sussex Police Launches ‘Stronger, Safer, Crawley’ Initiative to Deter Crime
In a significant push to bolster community safety, Sussex Police, in collaboration with various partners, have launched innovative schemes in Crawley, marking a notable step in their ongoing efforts to deter crime and strengthen local policing.
Over two action-packed days, the Crawley Neighbourhood Policing Teams introduced the ‘engagement pod’ in High Street alongside the initiative ‘Stronger, Safer, Crawley’. This strategic move aims to enhance police visibility in the area, serving as a deterrent to potential criminal activities and as a base for operations targeting serious and organized crime within the town center.
Highlighting these efforts, a major operation took place on Friday, 26 January, as part of the Neighbourhood Policing Week of Action. Sussex Police joined forces with Trading Standards, HM Revenue & Customs, the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU), Crawley Borough Council, and specialist search dogs to inspect seven premises in Crawley for illegal tobacco, counterfeit vapes, and other fraudulent goods.
The operation led to the seizure of thousands of pounds worth of illegal cigarettes and vapes, including items suspected of being fraudulently traded, illegally imported, or posing health and safety risks. Additionally, a concealed stash containing £10,000 was discovered and seized by officers. Running concurrently, the ‘Stronger, Safer, Crawley’ operation saw both plain-clothed and uniformed officers patrolling the area, resulting in 11 stop searches and the confiscation of Class A and Class B drugs.
Further extending their community engagement, on Tuesday, 31 January, the engagement pod opened its doors to partners and the public. This initiative, supported by Sussex Police and West Sussex County Council’s Community Safety Team, provided a unique opportunity for residents to interact directly with officers, PCSOs, and county council staff, allowing them to voice concerns and seek advice on safety issues.
Photo – Sussex Police Superintendent Nick Dias said: “The multi-functional use of the pod is perfect for what we wanted.
“Residents should be able to go to the pod and see a face if they have any questions. These days show that it won’t just be Sussex Police who will be there for answers, but also representatives from our partners.
“The day of action with Trading Standards was a fantastic result and it shows our commitment to keeping shoppers safe with legal products.”
Councillor Duncan Crow, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said: “As a resident of Crawley and elected member for the area, I am pleased to support the Safer Stronger Crawley initiative that has been running since November 2023 and the actions being taking in the town centre to make it a safer place for people to go about their daily lives.
“The co-ordinated work being done by the County Council’s Trading Standards, Community Safety Team and Early Help Service, alongside Crawley Borough Council Licencing, the Probation Service, and Sussex Police shows what can be done when agencies collaborate and work together for Crawley residents. I look forward to seeing the positive impact Safer Stronger Crawley brings in the coming months.”
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Heavy Police Presence and Arrests during BHAFC vs CPFC Match
A police operation was in effect on Saturday, as rival football teams Brighton & Hove Albion FC (BHAFC) and Crystal Palace FC (CPFC) faced off at the Amex Stadium. The match, which started at 3pm, was under tight security with officers from Sussex Police, the Metropolitan Police, and the British Transport Police (BTP) collaborating to ensure public safety.
In anticipation of the high-profile match, authorities had a substantial police presence throughout the city and particularly around Brighton Station. Efforts to keep peace between the rival fan groups saw CPFC supporters rerouted away from Queens Road to the station’s rear, where they were escorted to the stadium. In contrast, Brighton fans were temporarily held back to prevent any clashes, a measure stemming from a historical rivalry dating back to the 1970s.
Photo – Sussex News Photo – Sussex News Despite the majority of fans enjoying the game responsibly, the day was not without incident. Sussex Police later reported that an officer was injured before the match commenced, a result of a pyrotechnic device thrown near Brighton Station. Thankfully, the officer did not require hospital treatment and is currently recovering.
Photo – Sussex News Photo – Sussex News The police operation led to seven arrests for various offences, including assault, assault on an emergency worker, affray, and violations of the Public Order Act, with two cases exacerbated by homophobia. A Sussex Police spokesperson commended most fans for their conduct but lamented the actions of a disruptive minority. “Officers responded as necessary, and any individuals caught committing offences will be dealt with robustly,” the spokesperson added.
Photo – Sussex News Read more on www.Sussex.News
East Grinstead Indecent Exposure Incidents: Suspect Apprehended
Police are seeking information from the public after several related incidents of indecent exposure in East Grinstead.
In January, there were reports of four distinct occurrences on London Road, Institute Walk, King Street, Christopher Road, Sandy Lane, and Moat Road, involving a man behaving oddly before exposing himself.
Officers have apprehended a 35-year-old man from the area on charges of indecent exposure. He has been bailed while the investigation continues.
Anyone with insights or who witnessed these events is encouraged to reach out to Sussex Police via their website or by calling 101, mentioning Operation Hockey.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
