Arson fiend jailed for six years after setting ex’s home ablaze – beloved dog killed in horrific attack!
Adrian West Locked Up for Violent Crime Spree
Adrian West, 61, homeless and dangerous, was slammed with a six-year-and-three-month prison sentence at Lewes Crown Court. The vile violence spree includes:
- Arson with intent to endanger life
- Criminal damage
- Non-fatal strangulation
- Assault
- Two counts of actual bodily harm
West’s rampage targeted his ex-partner, Louise Simpson, 53, throughout 2024 in Crawley.
Fire Tragedy: Dog Dies in Home Blaze
On September 14, West returned to Louise’s Creasys Drive home and set it on fire, fully aware she and her three-year-old British Bulldog, Peggy, were inside. Neighbours helped Louise escape—but poor Peggy didn’t survive.
“I lost everything—my home, my dog, and my peace of mind,” Louise told the court. “Peggy was my world. I used her ashes in a tattoo design. That’s all I have left.”
The inferno obliterated all Louise’s prized possessions, including her son’s treasured childhood mementos. With no home insurance, the emotional and financial toll was devastating.
Relentless Abuse Before The Blaze
The court heard West unleashed repeated assaults on Louise—strangling, punching, and kicking her all year. He was even arrested for vandalising her doorbell camera the day before the fire but released after she didn’t cooperate.
After the fire, he was swiftly rearrested, charged, and pleaded guilty to all offences. Sentencing came on May 2, 2025.
Emergency Services and Police Speak Out
Sussex Police and West Sussex Fire and Rescue rushed to the horrific scene. Bodycam footage revealed the blaze’s devastating aftermath.
Detective Inspector James Blackmore said: “This was a shocking and cruel act of violence that could have led to a far worse loss of life. We commend Louise’s bravery in coming forward.”
Domestic Abuse Victims Urged to Speak Up
If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic abuse, help is out there:
- Refuge
- Women’s Aid
- Police non-emergency: Call 101
- Emergency services: Always dial 999
