Philip Smith, 29, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for a knife-point rape in Brighton city centre. The attack occurred in the early hours of August 9, 2025, in Bartholomew Square, where Smith threatened a woman in her 30s with a knife before raping her.
Attack and Arrest
Smith fled the scene after the victim contacted a friend, who disturbed him. Officers later stopped Smith in an alley near the seafront, finding him in possession of two knives and Class A drugs. He was also charged with indecent exposure after exposing himself to two women at Brighton Custody Centre.
Trial and Sentencing
Following a trial at Hove Crown Court, Smith was convicted of two counts of rape, two counts of indecent exposure, possession of a Class A drug, and possession of a bladed article in a public place. He was already on bail for a sexual assault on another woman in Brighton on August 5, 2025. On Thursday, he was jailed for 13 years, with an extended licence period, totalling 16 years.
Police Statement
Detective Superintendent Andrew Harbour said: “This was a horrific ordeal for the victim in the centre of Brighton. She was able to send a message to a friend in order to get help, and the friend’s actions and swift arrest ensured that Smith has been brought to justice. Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for Sussex Police. This case demonstrates our determination to catch dangerous offenders, and we are pleased that Smith is now serving a significant custodial sentence.”
