Man jailed for sexually abusing teenage girl in Rustington
Mark Rumbol, 50, will spend 11 years behind bars
Last updated 7th Feb 2024
A scrap metal dealer from Wales who sexually abused a teenage girl in Rustington has been jailed.
Mark Rumbol, 58, of Hewelsfield in Gloucestershire, sexually assaulted a girl under the age of 15 repeatedly between 2020 and 2021.
The abuse was reported to police in March, 2021 and Rumbol was arrested while his victim was supported by specialist officers.
He was subsequently charged with rape, two counts of sexual assault, two counts of assault by penetration and one count of inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity (no penetration).
At Lewes Crown Court on 18 December, he was found guilty of all charges except rape, of which he was found not guilty.
At the same court on Friday, 26 January, Rumbol was jailed for 11 years, ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life, and given a restraining order and an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order significantly reducing his ability to offend.
Detective Constable Julie Leseure said: “Mark Rumbol subjected his victim to appalling crimes for his own gratification, with no regard for the devastating harm they caused.
“She has shown incredible courage and determination to report the abuse and support this investigation through to its conclusion.
“Thanks to her bravery, Rumbol is now behind bars where he can cause no further harm.
“If you or someone you know are a victim of sexual offences, please report it to police online or via 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency. For more information, visit: Support for rape and sexual assault | Sussex Police”