Bognor Regis man Patrik Lis, 31, found guilty of brutal assaults and rapes in town centre attacks. Lis, from Sussex Street, was convicted at Portsmouth Crown Court for multiple offences, including rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, and actual bodily harm following two violent incidents in Bognor Regis.
Two Shocking Attacks Rock Bognor Regis
On 20 June 2023, Sussex Police received a chilling report of a rape near The Esplanade by the beach. The 22-year-old victim was given specialist support as an intense investigation kicked off.
Less than a year later, on 2 July 2024, a second horrifying attack was reported just off London Road. This time the victim was a 51-year-old woman who also got specialist help. Neither woman knew Lis.
Suspect Arrested and Charged
Lis was first arrested in September but released on bail while police gathered more evidence. The second report led to his rearrest in July 2024. He was quickly linked to both crimes and charged. Since then, he has been held in custody awaiting trial.
Convicted on Multiple Counts
On 12 March, Lis was found guilty of:
- Rape
- Two counts of attempted rape
- Two counts of causing actual bodily harm
- Two counts of sexual assault
- Intentional suffocation
- Assault by penetration
He now awaits sentencing on 2 May, remaining behind bars for public safety.
Police Praise Victims’ Bravery
“These were appalling, violent attacks on two victims who had a right to feel safe in public,” said Detective Chief Inspector Steve Cobbett. “Both victims have shown incredible bravery in reporting these crimes and supporting the investigation, despite the trauma they have endured.
“Thanks to their courage and the dedication of the investigative team, Lis will now face justice for his crimes. The streets of Sussex are safer as a result.”
Police Call for More Victims to Come Forward
DCI Cobbett added, “We know that reporting crimes like these is not easy, but our officers and partners are specially trained to support victims, believe them, and work tirelessly to secure justice.”
If you have been a victim of sexual offences, report online, call 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.
