Littlehampton domestic abuser sentenced

Tuesday, 10 November 2026 at 11:00

By V2 RADIO

Karl Foster, 48, of Horsham Road, Littlehampton

A domestic abuser from Littlehampton has been jailed for six years after attempting to escape police by climbing into the River Arun.

48-year-old Karl Foster of Horsham Road admitted assault, intentional strangulation, controlling behaviour and stalking during incidents in 2025.

Officers arrested him in the mud at low tide after he tried to flee from a nearby pub.

Portsmouth Crown Court also imposed a restraining order to protect his victim.

The court was told how incidents between June 2025 and September 2025 included him headbutting her, choking her, trapping her in a bedroom, and then bombarding her with unwanted messages and abuse.

Speaking after the case, Detective Constable Oscar Pennels said: “This was a distressing case which continues to have a traumatic impact for the victim.

“She has shown incredible courage to report incidents to the police.

“Foster went to great lengths to avoid being arrested, despite knowing he was wanted in connection with our investigation.

“Tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG) is a top priority for Sussex Police. We were determined to get justice in this case, and thanks to the victim for reporting her experience, and the strength of evidence against him, Foster had no choice but to plead guilty when presented with the evidence in court.

"He is dangerous offender who is now serving a significant custodial sentence.

“We continue to urge anyone affected by domestic abuse to report their experience to the police.”

Help and support for victims of domestic abuse and violence is available on the Safe:Space Sussex website and Sussex Police website.

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