STEPHEN BETHELL FROM HORSHAM SENTENCED FOR SERIES OF SEX OFFENCES IN HOVE

In a significant case that has shocked the community of Horsham, a man named Stephen Bethell has been handed a substantial prison sentence following a series of disturbing sexual offences. The proceedings took place at Hove Crown Court, where Bethell, aged 45, was found guilty of multiple counts of sexual assault and rape, crimes that spanned several years and involved different victims.

Bethell, who was unemployed at the time and did not have a fixed address, but had previously resided in the Horsham area, appeared in court to face the charges. His guilty plea was entered on March 18, prior to the sentencing hearing held on Thursday, April 30. The court heard that Bethell admitted to the rape of a woman in her early 30s, which occurred nine years ago, as well as the sexual assault of a 16-year-old girl in May of the previous year. Additionally, he confessed to sexually assaulting a woman in her 30s in January 2014.

Following the guilty pleas, Judge David Rennie sentenced Bethell to a total of four years in immediate imprisonment. The court determined that two-thirds of this sentence would be served in prison, with the remaining time, along with an additional seven years, to be served under supervision on a prison release licence. As part of his sentence, Bethell will also be registered as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions.

Detective Constable Stuart MacPherson commented on the case, stating, “Over a period of several years Bethell separately sexually abused all these people. They had felt unable to report the offences to the police at the time, but last year we received information about some of his offending from another source. We began an investigation and they all worked with us, which has resulted in Bethell, who Judge David Rennie described as a ‘dangerous man’, being brought to justice.”

He further added, “It is good that he will now serve a prison sentence, and will be in continued supervision in the community, for life. The sentencing also means that the victims now have the opportunity to draw closure to this hideous series of crimes, and will be able to move on with their lives.”

The case highlights the importance of community vigilance and the role of investigative authorities in bringing offenders like Bethell to justice, providing some measure of relief and hope for the victims involved.