Wojciech Burylo

Wojciech Burylo, a 50-year-old man from Calvin Walk in Bewbush near Crawley, West Sussex, has been jailed for 15 years following his conviction for a series of violent sexual offences against a woman spanning a decade. The abuse, which occurred between 2014 and 2024, involved three counts of rape, three counts of making threats to kill, and one count of battery. Burylo's actions were described in court as 'obsessional and controlling', with him subjecting his victim to relentless harassment and threats of extreme violence, including decapitation.

At Lewes Crown Court in July, the trial revealed the extent of Burylo's control over his victim's life. He would call her over 40 times a day, demanding to know her whereabouts and issuing threats of violence if she did not comply. The victim, praised by Judge Roger Chapple as 'brave and remarkable' for coming forward, reported the crimes to Sussex Police in January 2024, leading to Burylo's arrest. Remarkably, just an hour after being released on bail, Burylo used a member's of the public's phone to call and message her with further threats. Even after being remanded into custody, he continued the intimidation by sending threatening letters from prison.

On Monday, following his guilty verdict, Burylo was sentenced to a total of 20 years, comprising 15 years in prison and five years on extended licence. He was also issued with a restraining order against the victim and placed on the sex offenders' register for life. Judge Chapple highlighted the victim's courage in exposing the abuse during the proceedings.

Detective Inspector Darren Taylor of Sussex Police commented on the case, stating: 'Wojciech Burylo thought he could keep his victim under his control through years of appalling violent, sexual and psychological abuse. But he underestimated her, and in 2024 this incredibly brave woman told Sussex Police about his monstrous crimes. I hope the end of court proceedings allows her some sense of closure, as she looks to rebuild her life without any risk of further abuse from Burylo.' The case underscores the persistent nature of domestic and sexual violence, with Sussex Police playing a key role in bringing Burylo to justice. This article is based on reporting from BBC News, South East, published on 11 March 2025.