Seaford man convicted of controlling and abusing woman

Seaford man Mitchell Maybank has been convicted of assaulting and controlling a woman over several years.

Maybank, 33, of no fixed address, abused a woman in her 30s between 2017 and 2020, and sought to control many aspects of her life.

The victim was subjected to a repeated pattern of physical and psychological abuse, including violent assaults causing her to lose consciousness.

She also reported being raped by Maybank three times in 2020.

She reported the incidents to police in March, 2021, and Maybank was arrested and subsequently charged with three counts of rape, coercive and controlling behaviour and causing actual bodily harm.

He denied all the offences, but at Lewes Crown Court on Tuesday, 11 March, was convicted of coercive and controlling behaviour and causing actual bodily harm.

He was found not guilty of the three counts of rape.

Maybank is due to appear for sentencing at a court to be confirmed on Friday, 25 April.

Detective Constable Adam Rose said: “Violent and controlling behaviour ruins lives, and we will do all we can to protect victims and hold offenders to account.

“The victim in this investigation has shown incredible bravery to report Maybank’s offending and support this process, in the face of his denials, through to conviction.

“Our message to victims of abuse is clear – we are here to help, we will get you to safety and we will do all we can to get the justice you deserve.”

Sussex Police has a range of discreet reporting methods specifically for victims of domestic abuse. For more information, visit: Advice about domestic abuse | Sussex Police