GEORGE DE BATHE'S HORRIFIC CRIMES IN CHICHESTER: VICTIMS ENDURED RAPE, CONTROL, AND VIOLENCE

A man accused of inflicting severe physical, sexual, and psychological abuse on five young women has been found guilty in a court of law. George De Bathe, aged 25 and hailing from Chichester, orchestrated a disturbing series of violent acts and manipulative tactics over a period spanning from 2015 to 2019. The court proceedings revealed that De Bathe subjected his victims to a relentless campaign of coercion and violence, which included multiple instances of rape and controlling behaviors designed to dominate every aspect of their lives.

According to court reports, De Bathe employed a range of oppressive methods, such as forcing the women into restraints and falsely claiming that injuries they sustained were the result of consensual rough sex. His control extended into their personal choices, dictating what they could wear, what they ate, and even who they could communicate with. The victims were subjected to physical abuse, with some having their clothing deliberately cut, and their privacy invaded through demands to access their phones and social media accounts. Strict rules were imposed, requiring lengthy written apologies if they disobeyed his commands.

The trial uncovered particularly disturbing allegations, including an incident where De Bathe strangled a woman after she took a pregnancy test. He also pressured some victims into taking nude or topless photographs, including underage girls whom he manipulated into compliance. One woman was beaten unconscious and felt compelled to engage in sexual acts to prevent further harm. These acts of violence and coercion created an environment of fear and submission for the victims.

During the court proceedings at Portsmouth Crown Court, the jury found De Bathe guilty of a total of 24 charges. These included six counts of rape, seven of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, five of controlling coercive behavior, two of sexual assault, two of false imprisonment, and making threats. De Bathe chose not to give evidence during the trial, and prosecutors argued that he attempted to intimidate witnesses and manipulate the court process. Despite his claims that police could not prosecute him, the evidence presented was sufficient to secure his conviction.

Authorities from Sussex Police described De Bathe’s actions as having made the lives of his victims “miserable,” emphasizing the terror and suffering he inflicted. The Crown Prosecution Service highlighted the extent of his brutality and the psychological damage caused. De Bathe’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for July, where he will face the consequences of his actions and the full weight of the law.