NIALL O’SULLIVAN FROM BIRMINGHAM SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS IN BRIGHTON

A man identified as Niall O’Sullivan, aged 28 and originally from Birmingham, has been handed down a significant prison sentence after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a young girl in Brighton. The case highlights a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior, where O’Sullivan engaged in grooming tactics aimed at a minor under the age of 13. His manipulative efforts began through digital communication, as he used a mobile application to contact the young girl, who has been kept anonymous for legal reasons.

According to court records, O’Sullivan traveled from Birmingham to Brighton by car with the intent to meet the girl in person. His arrest took place in a Brighton Marina car park around 2 PM on May 7, following police surveillance and investigation. The authorities acted swiftly after gathering evidence of his intentions and actions.

During the trial held at Lewes Crown Court on November 24, O’Sullivan admitted to committing seven counts of rape, a revelation that underscored the severity of his offenses. The court subsequently sentenced him to nine years and four months in prison. A key aspect of the sentence is the requirement that he serve at least two-thirds of his term before being eligible for parole, reflecting the gravity of his crimes.

In addition to his prison sentence, O’Sullivan faces a lifelong registration as a sex offender, which entails strict monitoring and restrictions. The court also imposed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, designed to limit his contact with children and prevent further harm.

The investigation revealed that O’Sullivan first initiated contact with the victim via a chat application in November 2022. Their interactions escalated over time, culminating in a meeting in April, during which he committed six sexual assaults. The assaults often took place in secluded parking areas and involved the use of his vehicle as a venue for the abuse.

The victim described O’Sullivan’s reaction as one of anger when she attempted to socialize with friends, indicating a controlling and aggressive demeanor. The Brighton Safeguarding Investigation Unit, supported by specially-trained officers, played a crucial role in supporting the victim and leading the investigation that ultimately brought O’Sullivan to justice.