A 23-year-old man from Dorking, Surrey, has been found not guilty of raping a woman in Brighton, following a jury trial at Lewes Crown Court.

Mohammed Adam was acquitted on Thursday, May 8, after standing trial for an alleged incident that took place on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.

Four-year restraining order imposed despite acquittal

Despite being cleared of the charge, Adam was issued a four-year restraining order, preventing him from contacting the 20-year-old woman who had made the allegations.

The woman, a local Brighton resident, reported the incident to Sussex Police last year and was supported throughout the investigation by specially trained officers.

Police statement and victim support

Detective Constable Owen Watkins of Sussex Police said:

“We commend the woman for coming forward. We thoroughly investigated this case and presented it to the court, and we respect the decision of the jury.

We continue to encourage anyone who experiences sexual offences to report them, with the confidence that we will listen, investigate, and provide full support and safeguarding.”

Police emphasized that every case of alleged sexual violence is taken seriously and approached with professionalism and care, regardless of the outcome in court.

Public encouraged to report sexual offences

Sussex Police reiterated their commitment to supporting victims of sexual violence, ensuring a trauma-informed approach and encouraging survivors to report offences when they feel safe to do so.

Anyone affected by sexual violence is urged to contact police via 101, or in an emergency call 999. Support is also available through local services and national charities.