Man jailed for child sex offences in Lancing

James Wadhawan, 35, of Penalverne Crescent, Penzance, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to sexual offences against a teenage girl in Lancing, West Sussex. The case began in January 2024 when authorities issued Wadhawan with a Child Abduction Warning Notice (CAWN) following reports of inappropriate contact with the victim, a […]

James Wadhawan, 35, of Penalverne Crescent, Penzance, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to sexual offences against a teenage girl in Lancing, West Sussex.

The case began in January 2024 when authorities issued Wadhawan with a Child Abduction Warning Notice (CAWN) following reports of inappropriate contact with the victim, a girl aged between 13 and 15 years old.

On 9 March 2024, police received reports that Wadhawan had been seen with the victim in Lancing. Officers immediately engaged with the girl and her family while Wadhawan was arrested later that evening. He was released on bail with strict conditions while investigations continued. Just four days later, on 13 March 2024, Wadhawan was found again with the victim on a bridge in Lancing, leading to his rearrest. He was subsequently charged with two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13-15 and one count of child abduction, and was remanded in custody.

At Lewes Crown Court on 12 May 2024, Wadhawan pleaded guilty to all charges. The case concluded at Hove Trial Centre on 1 July 2024, where he received a 10-year prison sentence, an indefinite restraining order against the victim, and will be placed on the sex offenders register for life.

Detective Chief Inspector Mehdi Fallahi of Sussex Police stated: “James Wadhawan is a predatory offender who targeted a young girl for his own vile gratification. I would like to express my deep gratitude to the victim and her family for their bravery and unwavering commitment throughout the investigation, which played a vital role in putting a dangerous man behind bars.” DCI Fallahi also commended Investigator Sophie Williams for her diligent work on the case.

Sussex Police reiterated their commitment to protecting women and girls from exploitation and encouraged anyone affected by sexual offences to come forward. Reports can be made online or by calling 101, with 999 available for emergencies. The force continues to work with partner agencies to prevent grooming and exploitation while supporting victims through the justice process.