Predator Contractor Jailed for Raping Girl Over Five Years
Mark Greenfield, 47, an electrical contractor from Elphinstone Road, Hastings, was locked up at Lewes Crown Court on Friday 9 July. The court found him guilty of five counts of rape and one indecent assault against a girl aged between 11 and 15, offences carried out from 1998 to 2003.
Eight-Day Trial Ends with Guilty Verdict
Greenfield’s horrifying abuse spanned years while he was in his twenties. The victim’s family knew him, which allowed him to get close and commit the crimes in secret. The abuse finally stopped when she got a boyfriend and could avoid him.
Now, Greenfield faces an indefinite sex offender registration and a 16-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), which severely restricts his contact with minors.
Victim’s Harrowing Testimony
“Speaking out about sexual abuse is very hard as a victim, but by breaking the silence perpetrators can be brought to justice no matter how long ago it happened,” the victim said in a statement read aloud in court.
“I finally spoke out after many years of living with it alone. Over the years I struggled with depression, anxiety, and panic attacks. I suffered with very bad nightmares and still struggle daily. I have been traumatised and scared by Mark Greenfield’s actions.”
Police Praise Victim’s Courage
Detective Constable Anton Affonso of East Sussex’s Safeguarding Investigations Unit said:
“Greenfield systematically and secretly abused the victim for his own gratification. The abuse stopped only once she could distance herself.
His crimes have had a lifelong impact.
It took huge courage for the victim to come forward, fearing the fallout. But her bravery means a dangerous offender is now behind bars. We take historic sexual crimes seriously and will always pursue justice.”
Mark Greenfield’s sentencing offers some closure to the victim after years of silence and torment. The authorities urge anyone suffering abuse to come forward – it’s never too late to seek justice.
