Brighton man convicted of raping and sexually assaulting young women and children

A man was found guilty of crimes against six victims, including rape, sexual abuse and assault.

Shane Gibbs, 35, was convicted of 15 charges including rape and other serious sexual and violent crimes after a trial.

From October to December 2023, Gibbs preyed on children and vulnerable women in the Brighton and Hove area.

During those months, he led a seemingly nomadic life, traveling between hotel rooms and various Airbnb properties on and around the coast. He plied the victims with drugs (including GHB) and alcohol to such an extent that they were unable to prevent Gibbs from raping and sexually assaulting them at various locations along the city’s coastline.

One woman was attacked for a prolonged period, during which she was also strangled to the point of unconsciousness.

Two of the six victims were only 15 years old at the time of the sexual abuse attacks.

Emma Lile from the Crown Prosecution Service said: “Gibbs was a sexual predator who roamed the Brighton coastline preying on vulnerable young women in pursuit of his own hideous ends.

“We would particularly like to thank the victims who came forward to report these crimes and gave evidence in court about their horrific experiences.

“These convictions send a very clear message that the CPS, together with law enforcement, will relentlessly pursue justice and prosecute those who abuse or sexually exploit women.

“I encourage all victims of violence against women and girls, in whatever form, to report the crimes committed against them. It is never too late to seek justice – you are not alone and help is available.”

To tackle some of the more complex and challenging child sexual abuse cases such as this, the CPS has a dedicated Organized Child Abuse Unit to share specialist insight, build strong cases and increase the number of successful prosecutions.

Detective Vicki Blythe said: “The extent of Gibbs’ offending indicates a dedicated, dangerous predator who has targeted women and girls in the most abhorrent ways.

“All of his victims must deal with the consequences of his crimes for the rest of their lives, but have shown incredible courage in supporting this investigation and helping to bring a monster to justice.

“I would like to thank them all for their strength and determination, as well as the investigation team who worked so hard to put Gibbs behind bars.

“Each of these women and girls will continue to receive our full support as we look ahead to sentencing.”

Detective Chief Inspector Richard McDonagh, Head of Public Protection at Sussex Police, said: “This was an extremely complex, sensitive investigation involving a range of forces and partner organisations, all aimed at achieving a positive outcome for these victims.

“I would like to thank all partners involved for their support and cooperation, and the victims themselves for the incredible determination they have shown in helping to bring a dangerous individual to justice.

“I also commend the investigation team, whose dedication is a shining example of the commitment to justice and victims that I see every day in Sussex Police.

“This verdict comes during the UN’s sixteen days of activism against gender-based violence. Gibbs’ abhorrent crimes serve as a sobering reminder of why campaigns like this are so important, and why Sussex Police remains committed to protecting women and girls all year round.”