An Eastbourne man who subjected a woman to years of sexual abuse, violence and controlling behaviour has been jailed for 18 years.
Richard Bennett, 46, from Lower Willingdon, was convicted of rape, assault causing actual bodily harm, coercive and controlling behaviour and strangulation following a trial at Lewes Crown Court.
Sussex Police said Bennett had subjected the woman, who was known to him, to years of abuse, leaving her terrified and increasingly isolated from the outside world.
The victim contacted police on 5 February after finding the courage to escape from Bennett.
She told officers that his behaviour had become increasingly controlling and threatening, with Bennett falsely claiming to be a police informant in an attempt to frighten her and prevent her from seeking help.
The woman reported being repeatedly assaulted and strangled, while Bennett had also threatened to kill her.
Police said she had endured years of sexual abuse and was left living in fear of what he might do next.
Bennett's controlling behaviour extended into almost every aspect of the victim's life, with officers describing how he isolated her and forced her to remain indoors.
Despite being terrified of him, the woman eventually managed to flee and report the abuse.
Following her disclosure, specialist Sussex Police officers ensured she was safeguarded and provided with support.
Bennett handed himself in to police on 11 February.
The following day, he was charged with rape, assault causing actual bodily harm, coercive and controlling behaviour and strangulation. He was remanded in custody.
On 11 August, a jury at Lewes Crown Court found him guilty of the offences.
He returned to court on 18 September, where he was sentenced to 18 years in prison.
Detective Constable Marc Thomas, who investigated the case, praised the victim for her courage in coming forward and supporting the prosecution.
He said: “The victim had suffered years of abuse at the hands of Bennett, who impacted every part of her life, isolating her and forcing her to stay indoors as his behaviour became more threatening.
“She has been strong in supporting this investigation and it thanks to her that Bennett is now behind bars.”
The case highlights the devastating impact that domestic abuse, sexual violence and coercive control can have on victims, and the importance of seeking help when it is safe to do so.
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse can contact Sussex Police on 101, or call 999 if they are in immediate danger.
The free National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge, is available 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.
If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, Samaritans offers free, confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org.
BREAKING NEWS ACROSS THE SOUTH
Don't miss the stories that matter to you! Get BREAKING NEWS ALERTS sent STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE. Download the FREE V2 RADIO APP today! Seen something? Know something? Got a story we should be covering? BE OUR EYES AND EARS. Email news tips, images and video to news@v2radio.co.uk
HALF PRICE. BIG SAVINGS. DON'T MISS OUT!
STOP PAYING FULL PRICE! Get 50% OFF restaurants, days out, attractions and unforgettable experiences across the SOUTH. GRAB YOUR DEALS NOW at WWW.V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK
Police investigate homophobic hate crime involving Chichester Festival Theatre actor after performance cancelled
Sussex Police urge victims of hate crime to speak out during national awareness week
Police appeal to find missing 33-year-old Jack from Eastbourne
Bognor Regis reptile rescue charity launches £3,500 appeal after memorable visits to dementia care homes
Portsmouth RNLI considered for freedom of the city
Portsmouth councillors back emergency briefing
Family pay heartbreaking tribute to teenage boy who died after accidental air rifle shooting in Hampshire
Portsmouth schoolchildren help rescue crabs from Canoe Lake ahead of improvement works
Sussex hospital warns of rising burns as nearly half of child cases involve under-threes
LISTEN: Stagecoach boss to run Great South Run with teenage son in memory of stillborn daughter
