MARK STEVENS FROM ST LEONARDS SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN RYE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Mark Stevens, a resident of St Leonards, was convicted of serious sexual offenses committed in Rye. The incident took place on the evening of October 3, 2018, when Stevens targeted a woman known to him. At the time, the victim was either asleep or unconscious at her home in Rye, making her vulnerable to his actions.

Using his mobile phone, Stevens recorded a video of himself engaging in sexual assault against the woman. The footage captured a deeply invasive and criminal act, which he then shared with multiple contacts by sending the video to a number of friends and acquaintances. This act of sharing the illicit material added a further layer of criminality to his behavior.

It was only more than two months after the incident that the woman became aware of the video and Stevens' actions. Upon discovering the footage, she reported the matter to the police, leading to Stevens' swift arrest. The case drew significant attention due to the nature of the offenses and the breach of trust involved.

Mark Stevens, aged 34 and employed as a warehouse worker, resided at Paxhill Close in St Leonards. He faced multiple charges, including sexual assault, sexual assault by penetration, and the publication of an obscene article. During proceedings at Lewes Crown Court, Stevens pleaded guilty to all three charges, acknowledging the severity of his misconduct.

On Wednesday, August 5, the court sentenced Stevens to a term of three years and nine months in prison. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years, reflecting the gravity of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.