Man given 14-year sentence for offences against two young girls in Sussex

A man is starting a 14-year prison sentence for offences against two young girls which occurred in Brighton, Newhaven and Lancing.

Jonathan Pelling, 39, was sentenced at Hove Crown Court on Thursday (27 June) having been convicted of a total of five offences against the victims, who were known to him.

He committed three offences of sexual assault in Brighton, and one of child neglect in Newhaven, against a girl then aged between eight and 11, between 2012 and 2014.

He also sexually assaulted a 14-year-old girl in Lancing in 2011.

Pelling will be a registered sex offender for life.

Detective Constable Nikki Clarke of the Littlehampton Safeguarding investigations Unit said; "This offending first came to light two years ago when the first young girl disclosed her experiences with Pelling to relatives, and social workers and police were immediately informed.

"During that investigation we discovered anonymous information about Pelling suggesting that he had behaved inappropriately with other young girls. We identified one of them, the Lancing victim, and she disclosed to us the offending by Pelling against her.

"Both victims resolutely supported the prosecution and gave evidence at the trial, from behind screens so that only judge, jury and counsel to could see them.

"Pelling had gained the confidence of these two very young and trusting girls over a period of time, and then used them purely for his own sexual gratification.

"We will always follow up such reports no matter from how long ago, to seek justice and support victims."

For further information on reporting sexual offences and the support and advice which is available, see the Sussex Police website here.