Paedophile raped child for 8 years after first attack on her fifth birthday

A paedophile found guilty of a string of sex crimes first raped his victim on her fifth birthday. Keith Clifton, 58, of Horsham, West Sussex, started abusing the girl when she was four years old, sexually assaulting her and behaving in a sexualised way towards the then toddler.

Clifton went on to rape her regularly until she was 13. He was caught when the brave victim, who is now a woman in her 20s, reported the vile pervert to Sussex Police. He was arrested at his home in 2018 and the woman given support by specialist officers, according to the force.

Det Sgt Ellen Jones said: "I cannot commend the victim enough for the incredible strength and courage she has shown to support this investigation and help bring her abuser to justice.

"She is a remarkable woman, forced to live with the trauma of Clifton's appalling crimes, but with the determination to take back control and hold him accountable for his crimes."

Evil Clifton was convicted on January 23 of six counts of rape; three counts of assault by touching; two counts of assault by penetration; two counts of sexual activity with a child and one count of causing/inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

Further charges resulted in a hung jury following Clifton's two week trial at Hove Trial Centre, according to Sussex Police.

Det Sgt Jones said the woman would continue to receive the full support of Sussex Police and its partners ahead of Clifton's sentencing.

She added: "I also commend the investigative team for their diligence in a complex, distressing investigation that has resulted in a successful outcome and another dangerous offender off the streets of Sussex."

Det Sgt Jones urged victims of sexual offending to report it to the police no matter how long ago it was.

Clifton has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at the same court for sentencing on February 23.

Rape Crisis England & Wales works to end child sexual abuse, rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment and all other forms of sexual violence.

Call the charity's support line free 24/7 on 0808 500 2222 or visit 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk