John Simpson

John Simpson, a 52-year-old man from Eastbourne, was convicted and sentenced for a series of child sex offences committed in 2011. Simpson, residing at Sheffield Park Way, groomed a 13-year-old girl and subjected her to repeated sexual abuse over several months, manipulating her into believing their interactions constituted a normal relationship.

The abuse persisted until the victim managed to sever contact with Simpson. It was not until 2021, as an adult, that she reported the offences to the police. Specialist officers provided support during the ensuing investigation, which led to Simpson's arrest and charges comprising 13 counts of sexual activity with a child and two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

At Lewes Crown Court on 3 September 2025, Simpson was found guilty of nine counts of sexual activity with a child and two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. He was acquitted on four counts of sexual activity with a child. On 13 November 2025, he appeared for sentencing and received a total of nine years and six months' imprisonment. Additionally, Simpson will be required to register as a sex offender for life and was issued with an indefinite restraining order prohibiting contact with the victim.

Detective Inspector Harry Doyle of Sussex Police commented on the case, stating: "John Simpson took advantage of the young victim, abusing her trust for his own sexual gratification. She has had to live with the impact of his crimes into adulthood, but has shown incredible courage by reporting his offending to the police." Doyle further emphasised the force's commitment, adding: "Thanks to her determination, Simpson has now faced justice for his crimes and will spend a significant period behind bars. This should send a clear message to victims and perpetrators that no matter how long ago an offence took place, we will take all reports seriously, we will investigate and we will do all we can to bring offenders to justice."

The case was handled by Sussex Police, with proceedings at Lewes Crown Court in East Sussex. The victim's bravery in coming forward after a decade underscores the long-term effects of such crimes and the importance of thorough investigations into historical sexual offences.