Man Charged Over Two Rapes in Bognor Regis
Sussex Police have charged a man following investigations into two rapes in Bognor Regis, sending shockwaves through the seaside town.
First Attack: Early Morning Horror by The Esplanade
On 20 June 2023, police were alerted to a rape near The Esplanade beach in Bognor Regis during the early hours. Specialist officers quickly sprang into action to support the victim while launching a thorough investigation.
Second Rape Report Spurs Swift Arrest
Just under two weeks later, on 2 July 2024 at around 5am, police received a second rape report from London Road, Bognor. This case showed chilling similarities to the first, helping detectives zero in on a suspect.
Patrik Lis Charged with Multiple Serious Offences
Patrik Lis, 30, from Sussex Street, Bognor Regis, was arrested in September and later released on strict bail conditions while evidence was collected. He now faces multiple charges:
- Three counts of rape
- Two counts of assault by penetration
- Two counts of causing actual bodily harm
- One count of sexual assault
- One count each of intentional strangulation and suffocation
Neither victim knew Lis. He was remanded in custody at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on 5 July and is set to appear at Portsmouth Crown Court on 5 August.
The community remains on edge as police continue their work to bring justice.
