A Brighton man has been convicted of raping and sexually abusing young women and children

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

Shane Gibbs, 35, was convicted following trial on 15 charges, including rape and other serious sexual and violent offences.

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

During these months, he led a seemingly nomadic lifestyle, moving between hotel rooms and various Airbnb properties on and near the coast. He administered drugs (including GHB) and alcohol to the victims to the point that they were unable to prevent Gibbs from raping and sexually assaulting them at various locations along the city’s coast.

One of the women was the victim of a long-lasting attack, during which she was also strangled until she lost consciousness.

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 prowled the Brighton seafront, preying on vulnerable young women in pursuit of his own hideous goals.

“We would especially like to thank the victims who reported these crimes and gave evidence to the court about their horrific experiences.

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

“I encourage all victims of violence against women and girls, regardless of its form, to report crimes committed against them. It’s never too late to seek justice – you are not alone and you can count on help.

To deal with some of the more complex and challenging child sexual abuse cases, CPS has established a dedicated Organized Child Sexual Exploitation Unit to share expertise, build strong cases and increase the number of successful prosecutions.

Detective Constable Vicki Blythe said: “The scale of Gibbs’ offense indicates a committed, dangerous predator who targeted women and girls in the most horrific manner.

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

“I would like to thank them all for their strength and determination, and the investigative 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 await sentencing.”

Chief Inspector Richard McDonagh, head of public protection for Sussex Police, said: “This was an extremely complex and sensitive investigation involving a number of forces and partner agencies, all focused on achieving a positive outcome for these victims.

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

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

“This verdict came during 16 days of UN action against gender-based violence. “Gibbs’ horrific crimes are 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.”