PAUL LATHAM JAILED FOR ABUSING YOUNG GIRL IN EAST SUSSEX AND BRIGHTON
A man named Paul Latham has been sentenced to prison for sexually abusing a young girl in the East Sussex area, specifically involving locations in Brighton and the surrounding districts.The case, which has garnered significant attention, reached its conclusion at Hove Crown Court, where the jury carefully examined the evidence before finding Latham guilty of serious criminal charges.
Latham, who was 47 years old at the time of the offenses, engaged in penetrative sexual acts with a girl estimated to be between 13 and 15 years old.
Despite knowing her age, he proceeded with these acts at various addresses, including premises in Hove and Woodingdean, which are both considered parts of East Sussex and recognized for their distinct communities.
The court meticulously reviewed the case details, including testimony and physical evidence, before delivering a verdict.
On November 2022, the jury returned a guilty verdict on two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with the victim.
It's important to note that Latham was acquitted of the more severe charge of rape during the proceedings.
Nonetheless, the judge, Jeremy Gold KC, sentenced him to a substantial term of nine years' imprisonment.
As part of the sentence, Latham, who is currently 65 and unemployed, is required to serve a minimum of six years behind bars before he can be considered for parole.
Additionally, he will remain on the sex offenders' register for the rest of his life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.
In conjunction with the custodial sentence, the court also imposed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
This order places restrictions on Latham’s interactions with children, aiming to prevent any further potential harm.
The victim, whose identity is protected by legal measures, provided a poignant account of her feelings following the abuse.
She described how the ordeal left her feeling degraded and continues to cause her anxiety.
Despite her trauma, she expressed a sense of relief knowing that justice has been served and is now in the process of rebuilding her life.
The investigation was led by Detective Sergeant Andy Lawrence, who highlighted the support the victim received from specially-trained officers following her report in 2018.
Collaborating with Detective Constable Lisa Hampson from the sexual offences team, they worked diligently to gather evidence and bring charges against Latham.
DS Lawrence emphasized the importance of the case, stating, “Predatory sex offender Paul Latham has now faced justice for preying on a young teenage girl.” He further commended the victim’s bravery, noting, “The victim in this case showed extraordinary resilience and commitment.
She has remained determined through a very challenging period.
We have dedicated ourselves tirelessly to securing this conviction.” DS Lawrence also expressed hope that this case would encourage more victims to come forward, reinforcing the message that all reports of sexual offences are taken seriously regardless of how much time has passed.
He reaffirmed the department's commitment: “Victims of sexual offences will always be supported, and we will seek justice at all times.” This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat sexual crimes within the East Sussex community, sending a clear message that such violations will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted, regardless of the duration or circumstances surrounding the offence.
