Portslade man jailed eight years for rape, stalking and coercive behaviour
Paul Savage, 50, of Portslade, was sentenced to eight years at Lewes Crown Court after being found guilty of rape, stalking and controlling behaviour.
Portslade man receives eight-year sentence for rape and sustained abuse
Paul Savage, 50, of Carlton Terrace, Portslade, was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment at Lewes Crown Court on 23 October, sussexexpress.co.uk reports.
Savage was first charged on 2 January 2026 with intentional strangulation, possession of Class A and C drugs, stalking involving fear of violence, breach of a non-molestation order, and engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, according to a Sussex Police spokesperson. A further charge of rape was added on 18 February 2026.
He appeared before Lewes Crown Court on 10 July, where he was found guilty of rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, harassment, and breach of the non-molestation order.
Detective Constable Lisa Turner said the victim had shown "incredible strength and courage" in coming forward. "When she contacted police, she felt scared and isolated. She feared she could make matters worse by reporting her partner, who was unpredictable," Turner said.
Savage was placed on police bail following his initial charges but continued his behaviour despite a court order being imposed. Turner said that repeated reports from the complainant about breaches led to Savage being remanded into custody "very swiftly".
Turner urged others in similar situations to contact police. "Victims of domestic abuse and sexual abuse do not need to suffer in silence; there is help available," she said, adding that Clare's Law allows individuals to seek information about a partner's history of abusive behaviour.
"Early intervention can help prevent abuse and protect those at risk," Turner said. "If you are thinking about reporting but are uncertain of what will happen next, police will take your report seriously and listen to you. There are also many charities which can support you through the process."
Source: Google News UK — Crime (en)