CHRISTOPHER CUSHMAN FROM ST LEONARDS JAILED FOR DECADE OF SEXUAL ABUSE ON YOUNG GIRL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of St Leonards, Christopher Cushman, a man aged 64 at the time of sentencing, was sentenced to 11 years in prison after being found guilty of a prolonged period of sexual abuse against a young girl. The offences spanned over a decade, from 2005 to 2015, and involved a series of heinous acts that left a lasting impact on the victim.

At the time of the crimes, Cushman resided in Ferry Road, Rye, but he has since relocated to Marina in St Leonards. The case came to light after the victim, now an adult in her twenties, bravely reported the abuse in 2014, which ultimately led to Cushman's trial and conviction. The court proceedings took place in October, culminating in a verdict of guilt on multiple counts of sexual misconduct.

During the sentencing at Lewes Crown Court on November 18, Cushman was convicted of a total of 20 charges related to sexual abuse. These included two counts of assault of a child under 13 by penetration, five counts of assault by penetration, eight counts of sexual assault, two counts of causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent, and additional charges involving inciting a child to engage in sexual acts and causing a child to watch a sexual act. The severity and number of charges reflect the extent of the abuse inflicted over the years.

The victim’s courage in coming forward was instrumental in bringing Cushman to justice. Her testimony and the evidence presented in court painted a disturbing picture of sustained abuse, which Cushman subjected her to over a significant period. The court acknowledged the gravity of his actions and the lasting trauma inflicted on the young girl, now a woman.

Community members and advocates have expressed their relief that Cushman has been held accountable for his actions. The case underscores the importance of speaking out against abuse and the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals from harm. Cushman’s imprisonment serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such heinous crimes and the importance of justice for victims of sexual abuse.