Predator Andrew Mellis Jailed for 14 Years After Shocking Rape Convictions
Andrew Mellis, 58, of Tarner Road, Brighton, was slammed with a 14-year prison sentence at Lewes Crown Court on Monday, March 6. He was found guilty last July by a unanimous jury verdict of four counts of rape.
Multiple Victims Step Forward
The first three attacks emerged during a probe into an unrelated assault. Amid the investigation, a second woman bravely came forward to reveal another horrific offence.
Both victims had their powerful impact statements read aloud in court, revealing the devastating and lasting effects of Mellis’s crimes.
Judge Brands Mellis a ‘Dangerous Man’
Judge HHJ Christine Laing did not hold back. She described Mellis’s rapes as “brutal” and told him to feel shame for his sick abuse. Mellis was labelled “a dangerous man” and sentenced to 14 years in jail, plus a further four years on licence. On top of that, he will be on the sex offenders register for life.
Police Praise Victims’ Courage
Detective Constable Stewart Cameron from Sussex Police’s Brighton safeguarding unit applauded the women’s bravery. “Both of these women have shown huge amounts of courage in coming forward and providing accounts of the harrowing abuse they suffered at the hands of Andrew Mellis,” he said.
“He has shown no remorse, forcing them to relive their trauma in court. It took enormous strength and bravery. Thanks to them, justice has caught up with this evil man.”
Cameron added: “This case confirms it’s never too late to report offences. We take all reports seriously, no matter how long ago, handling them with sensitivity and compassion.”
