Two Men Found Guilty of Rape in Brighton Attack
Two men have been convicted of rape and sexual assault after a teenager was attacked in Brighton in June 2021.
Hero Bystanders Helped Rescue Victim
Shortly before midnight on June 2, a passer-by spotted a distressed teenage girl in the company of Ashley Lewis, 36, from Bromley, and Dylan Holden, 18, from Brighton. Both men fled when approached by members of the public who helped the vulnerable girl get home safely.
CCTV Evidence Led to Arrests
Police launched a rape investigation after speaking to the victim the following day. CCTV footage showed Lewis and Holden leading the young girl to Pavilion Gardens, where the attack took place. The footage also caught Lewis stealing the victim’s bag.
Both men were arrested within two days. Lewis faced charges of rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, and theft. Holden was charged with rape, attempted rape, and two counts of sexual assault.
Guilty Verdicts Delivered After Four-Week Trial
On November 11, after a four-week trial at Hove Crown Court, Lewis and Holden were found guilty on all charges except attempted rape. They were remanded in custody and will be sentenced on January 5, 2023.
Detective Constable Laura Pettitt said: “Women and girls should be able to go about their lives without falling victim to predatory men. I want to thank the victim for her incredible bravery throughout the investigation. Without her, this prosecution would not have been possible, and two dangerous individuals would still be on the streets.
“I also commend the members of the public who contacted police initially, helping to protect a vulnerable girl from further harm.
“Violence against women and girls will not be tolerated in Sussex. We will relentlessly pursue perpetrators and continue working with community partners to keep our county safe.”
