A man has been found guilty of raping a teenage boy in a flat in central Brighton.
In the early hours of 10 August 2025, a 17-year-old boy was sitting on a bench in Dyke Road, near the junction of North Street, when he was approached by 38-year-old Rafael Nascimento, a Brazilian national who was visiting Brighton on holiday.
Nascimento asked the teenager where he could buy cigarettes and then worked to gain his trust before taking him to a property in Regent Hill, where the offence occurred.
Nascimento was arrested the same day after the incident was promptly reported to police.
He was initially charged with one count of rape of a male and appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 12 August. He was later further charged with three counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault and causing a person to incite in sexual activity. The case was sent for trial.
On Tuesday 2 February, the jury in the two-week trial at Lewes Crown Court found Nascimento guilty of four counts of rape and causing a person to incite in sexual activity. They found him not guilty of the sexual assault charges.
Nascimento was remanded in custody to appear for sentencing on 17 April.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector, Steve Cobbett, said: "We cannot underestimate the importance of the victim’s bravery in coming forward and reporting this horrific crime so promptly.
"His action enabled officers to quickly identify, locate and arrest Nascimento within hours of the offence.
"During police enquiries, it was found that Nascimento was in the UK on holiday and was due to fly back to Brazil the day after the offence, making the victim’s early report even more crucial to the investigation.
"The jury has now returned their verdict, and we await Nascimento’s sentencing in April.”
"Sexual offences against men remain under‑reported, yet every report matters. Victims can have confidence they will be believed, supported, and fully protected. If you are a victim of a sexual crime, we understand that coming forward can feel difficult. We will investigate all reports thoroughly, and you will be listened to, taken seriously, and supported throughout the process."
Get the latest BREAKING NEWS for the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today!
V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK - Back Then Festival is coming to Chichester this August, with Tinchy Stryder and Toploader live at Westgate Fields – plus food stalls, a vintage funfair and family fun.
EXCLUSIVE V2 Vouchers deal: half-price tickets - Adult tickets Back Then Festival in Chichester (adult ticket) - V2 Vouchers are available at half price for £17.50.
Man charged with rape of 17-year-old boy in St Leonards
Arrests made as officers complete warrants in Bognor
Rail disruption in the South East continues
Transport links holding back West Sussex economy
Opportunity for evening and night-time businesses in Chichester to boost their offering — grant scheme now open
Councillors in Wealden set to hear supermarket’s licence bid
Residents in Chichester reminded to choose a licensed breeder when buying a puppy
Sussex students urged to volunteer to boost job prospects
Fareham police appeal again after assault at train station
Portsmouth City Council make £3M in savings in budget
On Air