JOSHUA HUMPHREYS FROM CRAWLEY SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES AGAINST FIVE GIRLS IN EAST GRINSTEAD AND HORSHAM

In a significant case that has shocked the local communities of Crawley, East Grinstead, and Horsham, Joshua Humphreys, a 25-year-old man from Rushetts Road, Crawley, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of ten years and eight months for a series of serious sexual offences committed against five young girls. The sentencing took place at Lewes Crown Court, where Humphreys was found guilty of multiple counts related to his predatory behavior.

Humphreys had previously admitted to a total of 19 sexual offences involving five girls aged between 12 and 15, with incidents spanning from 2011 to 2015. These offences occurred across various locations, including Crawley, Horsham, and East Grinstead. The court proceedings revealed the extent of his misconduct, which included rape, sexual assault, sexual communication, and inciting sexual activity. The charges were detailed during a hearing on December 8, where Humphreys pleaded guilty to all counts.

As part of his sentence, Humphreys will also be subject to lifelong registration as a sex offender, a measure designed to monitor and restrict his future interactions with minors. The court's decision underscores the severity of his actions and the danger he posed to vulnerable young girls.

Detective Constable Joel Finney, of the West Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit, provided insight into the case, emphasizing that Humphreys was already a registered sex offender prior to these offences. He explained that Humphreys had been convicted in February 2016 at Chichester Crown Court for inciting an 11-year-old girl into sexual activity, which resulted in a suspended sentence. Following that conviction, authorities received additional allegations from other young girls, prompting a renewed investigation.

According to Detective Finney, the victims disclosed that Humphreys had engaged in a range of inappropriate behaviors, from sending sexual messages via social media and text to the systematic rape and abuse of one girl, who was only 12 years old at the time. The abuse reportedly lasted for a year, highlighting the prolonged nature of his predatory conduct. All victims were between the ages of 12 and 15, while Humphreys was over 18 during the incidents, illustrating a disturbing pattern of targeting minors.

Humphreys used social media platforms to establish contact with the girls, often befriending them under false pretenses before attempting to engage in sexual activities. He openly admitted to investigators that his primary goal was to pursue sexual encounters whenever the opportunity arose. The case also detailed how he exerted control over the 12-year-old victim, gradually normalizing and introducing her to degrading activities, which added to the gravity of his offenses.

The investigation was supported by the victims, who demonstrated remarkable resilience and willingness to testify in court despite the trauma they endured. Detective Finney expressed his admiration for their bravery and emphasized that no one should have to suffer such conduct. He also urged anyone experiencing similar situations to seek help, providing information about available support services on the police website. Victims and concerned individuals can contact authorities confidentially by calling 101.

Humphreys was subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) issued in 2016, which continues to restrict his access to children and computers until further notice from the court. This order is part of ongoing efforts to prevent any further harm and monitor his activities closely.