ANDREW MELLIS SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR BRUTAL RAPE IN BRIGHTON
A man accused of the heinous crime of raping two women has been handed a lengthy prison sentence of 18 years.Andrew Mellis, aged 58 and residing on Tarner Road in Brighton, appeared in Lewes Crown Court on Monday, March 6, to receive his judgment after a conviction that was reached by a unanimous jury verdict back in July of the previous year.
The charges against Mellis included four counts of rape, with three of these offenses coming to light during an initial investigation into an assault.
As the inquiry progressed, a second woman stepped forward to disclose her own experience, leading to the identification of the fourth count of rape.
These cases painted a disturbing picture of repeated abuse carried out over a significant period.
During the court proceedings, both women delivered victim impact statements that articulated the profound and lasting effects of Mellis’s actions.
These statements underscored the emotional and psychological toll the assaults had taken upon them, highlighting the long-term trauma inflicted by the defendant.
In her sentencing remarks, HHJ Christine Laing described the crimes committed by Mellis as 'brutal.' She expressed her disgust and disappointment at the defendant’s conduct, emphasizing that his actions demonstrated a blatant abuse of trust and authority.
The judge also remarked that Mellis should feel a sense of shame for the suffering he had caused.
Recognizing the danger that Mellis continued to pose to society, HHJ Laing labeled him a 'dangerous man.' As a result, she sentenced him to an initial term of 14 years in prison, with an additional four years to be served on license upon release.
Furthermore, Mellis was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing oversight of his activities.
Commenting on the case, Detective Constable Stewart Cameron, from Sussex Police’s Brighton safeguarding unit, acknowledged the bravery of the victims in coming forward.
He stated, 'Both of these women have shown huge amounts of courage in speaking out about the harrowing abuse they suffered at the hands of Andrew Mellis.' Cameron emphasized that Mellis displayed no remorse for his actions, and that the victims’ willingness to relive their experiences through court proceedings required immense strength and bravery.
He expressed hope that the conviction and sentencing would serve as a step toward helping the victims rebuild their lives.
The police officer also stressed that it is never too late to report such offences, encouraging others to come forward regardless of how much time has elapsed since the incidents.
He assured the public that all cases would be treated with sensitivity and care, reflecting the importance of justice for survivors of sexual abuse in Brighton and beyond.
