In 2025, the Offender Database recorded that Sussex Police issued an urgent appeal to identify a man following a report of rape at a residential address in Hove, East Sussex. The incident occurred on 11 December at approximately 9:40pm. It was reported that a man was seen speaking to a woman outside a property in Queens Place before entering; he was seen leaving the area roughly 10 minutes later.
The investigation established the serious nature of the assault and the ongoing efforts to locate the individual pictured. Sussex Police reported that a thorough investigation was launched immediately, and the victim is currently receiving support from specialist officers. The prosecution reported that identifying the man seen in the vicinity is a critical priority for detectives working on the case in the Hove area.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The police reported that they are carrying out extensive enquiries to establish further information and gather relevant footage. Sussex Police released a detailed description of a man they wish to speak with: he has brown or black hair and a beard, and was wearing a dark cap, a dark jacket with an emblem on the arm, blue jeans with faded thighs, and a white top with a motif on the chest. The investigation established that he was also carrying a white plastic shopping bag at the time he was seen in Queens Place.
Detective Inspector Alice Button stated that public safety remains the top priority while officers continue to seek witnesses. For the incident in Hove, police are asking anyone who was in the area on the evening of Thursday, 11 December, to come forward. The judge noted in similar cases that prompt reporting of suspicious sightings near the scene of a stranger attack is often vital to securing a conviction.
Status and Statutory Requirements
For the crimes reported in England, the status of the investigation is as follows:
- Current Status: Active investigation / Suspect identification sought.
- Offence: Rape.
- Location: Queens Place, Hove, East Sussex.
- Police Force: Sussex Police.
- Reporting Reference: Reference 1209 of 12/12.
- Origin: Hove, East Sussex.
Monitoring and Public Protection
The investigation is managed by the Safeguarding Investigations Unit to ensure the protection of the local community. Due to the nature of the conduct in Hove, specifically a rape occurring shortly after a man was seen loitering outside a property, the management of this case is a maximum priority. Authorities state that identifying the man with the bearded description and distinctive clothing is essential to preventing any further risk to residents in Queens Place and the wider Brighton and Hove area.
As the search continues, police are maintaining a presence in the area to provide reassurance. Authorities state that the gravity of the report in Hove necessitates a rapid resolution. Any individual who recognises the man from the description or has private CCTV or dashcam footage from Queens Place on 11 December is urged to contact Sussex Police immediately by calling 101.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.