A man who pleaded guilty to child sex offences has been found not guilty of rape.

Callum Thewlis, from Brighton, was charged with two counts of the rape of a girl aged between 13 and15 and two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged between 13 and 15.

It followed a report police received in 2018 from a teenage girl who reported being raped on two occasions.

She was supported by specialist officers and an investigation was launched.

Thewlis, who was 17 at the time of the offences, was arrested in February, 2018, and following a thorough investigation was charged and brought before the court.

At Brighton Magistrates’ Court on February 16, 2023, Thewlis pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape of a girl aged between 13 and 15.

He pleaded guilty to two alternative charges of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged between 13 and 15.

At Lewes Crown Court on Friday, November 10, Thewlis, now 24, was found not guilty by a jury of both counts of rape of a girl aged between 13 and 15.

Thewlis, of Moulsecoomb Way, is due to be sentenced at a court to be confirmed on December 20.

Detective Sergeant Gemma Holley said: “This conviction will rightly see Callum Thewlis face justice for his crimes, but his victim must live with their impact for the rest of her life.

“I would like to thank her for reporting to us and supporting the investigation through to its conclusion. This result would not have been possible without her bravery and strength.

“If you or someone you know are a victim of sexual offences, please report to police online or via 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”