Man Charged with Seven Counts of Rape After Woman Attacked at Home
A man has been charged with seven counts of rape after a woman in her 40s was attacked in her own home in Rother. The chilling incident dates back to October 2021 when the victim met the suspect through a dating website.
Horrific Attack Inside Property
On the night of 9 October 2021, the man allegedly raped the woman multiple times after she invited him into her house. The victim managed to escape and quickly contacted police. Specialist officers and community partners have since supported her throughout the investigation.
Suspect Named and Court Details
Mark Grout, 49, from Leylands Lane in Stanwell Moor, Surrey, was arrested and charged with seven counts of rape and one count of assault by penetration. He appeared at Hastings Magistrates’ Court on 5 June where he was granted bail with strict conditions.
Grout is set to appear for a further hearing on 5 July, with the exact court to be confirmed.
Police Praise Victim’s Courage and Urge Others to Speak Out
Detective Constable Mark Smith of Hastings’ Safeguarding Investigations Unit said: “I want to thank the victim for her bravery in coming forward and supporting our enquiries.”
He also urged other victims of sexual offences to report crimes to the police. “If you are a victim of a sexual offence, please come forward. We will listen, support you, and do everything possible to secure justice.”
