A man has been charged with three counts of rape in a seaside town.

Last June 20, police received a report of a rape during the early hours of the morning off The Esplanade near the beach in Bognor.

Police began to investigate and the victim was supported by specialist officers.

Patrik Lis, 30, was arrested in September and released on bail with strict conditions while evidence was gathered to pursue a charge.

Police said they then received a second report of a rape "under similar circumstances", alleged to have taken place at around 5am on July 2, 2024, off London Road in Bognor.

While the victim was also given specialist support, an investigation linked the two incidents and identified Lis, of Sussex Street, Bognor, as a suspect.

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He was arrested and subsequently charged with three counts of rape against two women, two counts of assault by penetration, two counts of causing actual bodily harm and one count each of sexual assault, intentional strangulation and intentional suffocation.

Neither victim was known to Lis.

He was remanded in custody at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on Friday, July 5, to appear at Portsmouth Crown Court on August 5.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Cobbett said: “I would like to thank both of the victims in these investigations for their bravery in coming forward and reporting to the police, and their continued support with the investigations.

“They will continue to receive our full support through every step of the court process.

“Our commitment to protecting the public remains steadfast and we will do all we can, alongside our partners, to safeguard vulnerable people and hold offenders to account.

“If you are a victim of sexual offending, please report it to the police. You will be believed, heard and supported, and we will work tirelessly to get you justice.

“Report online, via 101 or by dialling 999 in an emergency.”