Former University of Sussex student jailed for raping and sexually assaulting women

A former University of Sussex student has been jailed after being convicted of a series of serious sexual offences against five women, including fellow students. Alex Patel-Wills, 26, of Grove Road, Barnet, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court after a jury found him guilty of multiple offences including rape, sexual assault and assault by penetration. […]

A former University of Sussex student has been jailed after being convicted of a series of serious sexual offences against five women, including fellow students.

Alex Patel-Wills, 26, of Grove Road, Barnet, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court after a jury found him guilty of multiple offences including rape, sexual assault and assault by penetration. He received a sentence of 25 years, made up of 19 years in custody followed by a six-year extended licence period on release.

The court heard that the offences took place between 2018 and 2021 in Brighton, on the University of Sussex campus, and in London. The investigation began after a woman reported being raped at a property in Brighton in October 2021. Following her report, specialist officers launched a detailed investigation which uncovered four further victims who came forward independently.

One woman described being raped and sexually abused on multiple occasions while she was in her late teens. Another victim reported being raped at a property in London while she was vulnerable. Further offences included a sexual assault on the university campus in 2020 and a rape at Patel-Wills’ home in Brighton.

Patel-Wills was charged with five counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault and two counts of assault by penetration. The jury convicted him of four counts of rape, two sexual assaults and one assault by penetration. He was acquitted of one count of rape and one assault by penetration.

During sentencing, the judge highlighted the seriousness of the offences and the lasting psychological impact on the victims, noting a lack of remorse shown by the defendant. Victim impact statements described long-term trauma and the effect the crimes have had on their sense of safety and wellbeing.

Detectives praised the courage of the women who came forward, saying their willingness to report the offences and support the prosecution was crucial in securing the conviction. Sussex Police reiterated that reports of sexual violence are treated seriously and thoroughly investigated.

The University of Sussex said it condemns all forms of sexual violence and remains committed to ensuring the safety of students, adding that safeguarding processes continue to be reviewed.

Sussex Police encouraged anyone affected by sexual offences to come forward and seek support, either by reporting incidents to police or by accessing specialist support services.