Eastbourne man jailed for rape and domestic abuse

Eastbourne man Richard Bennett, 46, has been jailed for 18 years for rape, assault and abusive offences against a woman known to him.

On 5 February the victim reported that Bennett, of Lower Willingdon, had become increasingly controlling, lying about being a ‘police informant’ to keep the victim in fear and preventing her from seeking help and support.

She reported that at times he would strangle her, assault her and threatened to kill her. She reported that she was subject to years of sexual abuse.

She was petrified of him but built up the courage to flee from him.

After the report to police the victim was safeguarded and given support by specialist officers.

Bennett handed himself in on 11 February and on 12 February he was charged with rape, assault causing actual bodily harm, coercive controlling behaviour and strangulation and was remanded into custody.

On 11 August at Lewes Crown Court, he was convicted after being found guilty of rape, assault causing actual bodily harm, coercive controlling behaviour and strangulation.

On 18 September, he was sentenced to 18 years in prison.

Detective Constable Marc Thomas said: “The victim had suffered years of abuse at the hands of Bennett, who impacted every part of her life, isolating her and forcing her to stay indoors as his behaviour became more threatening.

“She has been strong in supporting this investigation and it thanks to her that Bennett is now behind bars.