Mark Light

Mark Light, a 58-year-old resident of Portslade, was convicted at Lewes Crown Court of three counts of sexual assault against a 14-year-old girl. The incident occurred on the night of 18 March 2022 at his address on Harebell Drive, where Light was responsible for looking after the vulnerable teenager.

The court heard that Light, who held a position of trust in the girl's life, abused that trust by kissing her on the lips and touching her sexually. The victim, whose identity is protected by law, delivered a poignant impact statement during the proceedings, describing how the assault 'completely shattered' her and 'stole her innocence'. She explained that her perception of life had fundamentally changed, stating, 'You were an adult I trusted. That trust in adults has only been rebuilt in the last year.' The teenager detailed severe ongoing effects, including struggles to eat, sleep, and breathe, as well as panic attacks, nightmares, and sleepless nights. She described the court process as 'the hardest thing of [her] entire life' and emphasised her fight 'to have my voice heard and be believed'.

Judge Martin Huseyin acknowledged the gravity of the offence, noting a 'clear lack of remorse' from Light and highlighting that the girl was in a vulnerable position at the time. He described the actions as an 'abuse of trust' that was 'rather spontaneous and rather out of character', but stressed that it was Light's choice and had 'very serious effects' on the victim. Despite the prosecution's case, the judge characterised the incident as isolated, which influenced the sentencing decision.

Light was acquitted on one count of sexual assault but found guilty on the remaining three following a trial. In mitigation, the court considered the incident as out of character for Light, supported by substantial personal references. Consequently, he was sentenced to two years' imprisonment, suspended for two years, avoiding immediate custody. Additionally, Light was ordered to complete rehabilitation activity requirement sessions and will be placed on the sex offenders' register. The case was reported by The Argus, with details emerging from the hearing at Lewes Crown Court.