Man charged with serious sexual assault against teenager in Worthing
The boy, who's under the age of 16, reported being attacked after meeting a man overnight on 3-4 April
A man's been charged with serious sexual assault against a teenage boy in Worthing.
The boy, who is under the age of 16, reported receiving sexual messages from a man on Snapchat, who he agreed to meet in Worthing overnight on 3-4 April.
They then reported being raped, sexual assaulted, and driven in a car for over three hours before escaping.
The boy reported the incident to Sussex Police on 21 May, and he is now being supported by specialist officers whilst investigations continue.
Thomas Crabtree - also known as Will - of Sundew Close, Bedford, was later arrested and charged with rape, assault by penetration, engaging in sexual communication with a child, causing a child to look at an image of sexual activity, meeting a boy under 16 years of age following grooming and taking a child to remove them from a person having lawful control.
The 35-year-old was remanded in custody in Brighton Magistrates Court on Monday, and is due before a court to be confirmed on 1 July.
Detective Sergeant Paul Heal said:
"These allegations have been treated with the upmost seriousness they deserve, and the young victim and his family will continue to receive the full support of Sussex Police and our partners.
"We are asking anyone with information that could help the investigation to contact police online or via 101, quoting serial 1575 of 21/05."