A man charged with two counts of rape near Brighton Palace Pier has been acquitted after a jury returned a not-guilty verdict.
The case centred around an incident that occurred on the evening of 16 July 2022. A then-16-year-old girl reported being raped close to the iconic pier in Brighton. Following her report, specialist officers from Sussex Police supported her as a thorough investigation was launched.
Joseph Eubank, 27, of Hill Drive, Hove, was arrested and later charged with two counts of rape of a woman over the age of 16. Eubank consistently denied the charges, and the case proceeded to trial at Lewes Crown Court. After hearing the evidence, the jury acquitted Eubank of both charges on Friday, 27 September.
Speaking after the trial, Detective Constable Em Hayler, who led the investigation, said: “We respect the decision of the jury and the judicial process. We acknowledge the impact this case has had on everyone involved throughout the past two years. I’d like to thank everyone who assisted us in our investigation and the subsequent court process.”
Despite the acquittal, Sussex Police remain committed to supporting victims of sexual offences and ensuring that such cases are thoroughly investigated.
Anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence is encouraged to report the crime to the police either online or by calling 101. In emergencies, 999 should always be dialled.
