A sex offender who indecently assaulted a thirteen-year-old girl 30 years ago has avoided a jail sentence.

Graham Aldis, of St Peters Road in Burgess Hill, pleaded guilty to one count of indecent assault after appearing at Lewes Crown Court on Wednesday was given a one year suspended sentence.

Judge Scott-Gall described the 67-year-old’s crime as a "most dreadful offence" which has had a “devastating effect” on the victim’s life.

The woman, who was just 13 at the time of the attack but is now in her 40s, came forward to police last year to report the incident.

Judge Aldis said: "This offence occurred 32 years ago and the damage to the victim has been considerable; she has buried what happened deeply and has hated herself."

DC Mark Butcher, from Crawley CID, said: "This crime has had a terrible effect on the victim for most of her life.

“Last year, she finally felt strong enough to come forward and tell police of her terrible ordeal.

“It was an incredibly brave thing to do and I hope that this sentence will go some way for her to get the justice and closure that she deserves."

As well as ordering Aldis to a sentence suspended for two years and to sign the Sex Offender Register for seven years.

 

See the latest crime figures in your area with our street-level crime map