PAUL SMITH FROM HAILSHAM SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES INVOLVING TEENAGE GIRL IN SUSSEX

In June 2018, a man from Hailsham, identified as Paul Smith, faced the full weight of the law after being convicted of serious sexual offences committed against a teenage girl. The case was thoroughly investigated by Sussex Police safeguarding detectives, who uncovered disturbing details about Smith's misconduct.

Paul Smith, aged 43 and unemployed, residing on Howlett Drive in Hailsham, was brought before Lewes Crown Court where he was sentenced on Wednesday, June 13. The court found him guilty of two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor, specifically a 15-year-old girl. The proceedings revealed that Smith had deceived the young girl by falsely claiming he was 23 years old, despite her vulnerability and age.

According to court records, Smith met the girl in the street and subsequently groomed her over a period of several weeks during the summer of 2016. His manipulative behavior involved gaining her trust and convincing her to engage in a sexual relationship, which he continued until his actions were uncovered.

The criminal case came to light when police received anonymous information from a third party, providing crucial details about the girl’s interactions with Smith. This tip-off prompted a detailed investigation that ultimately led to his conviction.

As part of his sentencing, Paul Smith was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, a measure designed to monitor and restrict his contact with young people moving forward. Additionally, he was issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), which imposes strict restrictions on his access to minors, effectively limiting his ability to interact with children and teenagers in the future. The case underscores the importance of community vigilance and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals from predatory behavior.