PATRIK LIS BOGNOR REGS MAN CONVICTED OF RAPE AND SEXUAL OFFENCES NEAR THE ESPLANADE AND LONDON ROAD

In a significant development in the ongoing fight against sexual violence in Bognor Regis, Patrik Lis, a 31-year-old resident of Sussex Street, has been found guilty of multiple serious offences following a series of disturbing incidents in the town. The convictions come after a thorough investigation into two separate assaults that shocked the local community and prompted a swift law enforcement response.

The first incident was reported on the early morning of June 20, 2023, when police received a distress call about a rape that occurred off The Esplanade, close to the beach in Bognor Regis. The victim, who is now 22 years old, was provided with specialized support from officers trained to handle such sensitive cases. An investigation was immediately launched, and evidence was collected to identify the perpetrator.

Patrik Lis was subsequently arrested in September of the same year. He was released on bail under strict conditions while authorities continued their inquiries. The investigation took a further step when a second report emerged, alleging a similar sexual assault took place around 5 a.m. on July 2, 2024, this time off London Road in Bognor Regis. The second victim, a 51-year-old individual, also received specialist support, and the police quickly linked the two incidents, establishing a pattern of behaviour that pointed to Lis as the suspect.

Importantly, neither of the victims was known to Lis prior to these incidents, which underscored the random and opportunistic nature of the attacks. Following the evidence gathering, Lis was arrested again in July and charged with multiple offences. He was remanded in custody pending trial.

The case was brought before Portsmouth Crown Court, where on Wednesday, March 12, Lis faced justice. The court found him guilty of a series of serious charges, including rape, two counts of attempted rape, causing actual bodily harm on two occasions, sexual assault twice, as well as one count each of intentional suffocation and assault by penetration. The verdict marked a significant victory for the victims and the community, highlighting the importance of diligent police work and judicial proceedings in addressing such heinous crimes.

Lis is currently remanded in custody and is scheduled to be sentenced on May 2. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and support services in tackling sexual violence and protecting vulnerable individuals within the community of Bognor Regis.