Horsham Man Jailed for 22 Years Over Prolonged Child Sexual Abuse

A Horsham man has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for a series of serious child sexual offences committed against a young girl over many years. Keith Clifton, of Tanyard Close in Horsham, West Sussex, was convicted after a trial at Lewes Crown Court (sitting at Hove Trial Centre). The offences involved repeated rapes […]

A Horsham man has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for a series of serious child sexual offences committed against a young girl over many years.

Keith Clifton, of Tanyard Close in Horsham, West Sussex, was convicted after a trial at Lewes Crown Court (sitting at Hove Trial Centre). The offences involved repeated rapes and sexual assaults, beginning when the victim was just four or five years old and continuing for an extended period. The survivor, now a woman in her 20s, reported the historical abuse to Sussex Police, demonstrating significant courage in coming forward.

Following a thorough investigation by specialist officers, Clifton faced multiple charges, including several counts of rape of a girl under 13, assault by penetration, sexual assault by touching, and related sexual offences against a child. He was convicted of the majority of these charges after a trial concluding in late January 2026.

On Monday, February 23, 2026, at Lewes Crown Court, Clifton received a total custodial sentence of 22 years. The court also imposed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order to safeguard the public and limit his future activities.

Sussex Police have commended the victim’s bravery in reporting the abuse and supporting the prosecution, which has brought the offender to justice despite the passage of time. Authorities stress that no matter how long ago such crimes occurred, reports are taken seriously, and support is available for survivors.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Sussex Police and the criminal justice system to address child sexual exploitation and abuse, ensuring perpetrators face appropriate consequences for the profound harm inflicted.

Anyone affected by similar experiences is encouraged to contact Sussex Police or seek confidential help from specialist organisations, including the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or Victim Support services.