“Violent and Controlling” Chichester Man Found Guilty of Multiple Rapes and Abuse of Five Women
A “violent and controlling” man from Chichester has been found guilty of raping and abusing five women over a period spanning more than a decade, following a harrowing trial that exposed his long campaign of manipulation, coercion, and violence.
James Thornton, 41, was convicted at Portsmouth Crown Court on multiple charges including rape, coercive control, actual bodily harm, and sexual assault. His conviction follows a months-long investigation by Sussex Police, who described the case as one of the most disturbing patterns of serial abuse they had encountered in recent years.
The court heard how Thornton, described by prosecutors as a “predator who thrived on fear and control,” subjected his victims to prolonged psychological torment and physical violence. His actions left deep emotional scars on all five women, some of whom said they feared for their lives during their relationships with him.
According to testimony, Thornton isolated his victims from friends and family, monitored their movements, and used intimidation and threats to assert control. One woman recounted being punched repeatedly in the face after trying to leave him. Another described being raped after refusing to comply with his demands. Several victims reported long-term trauma, including PTSD and severe anxiety, as a result of the abuse.
Detective Inspector Lisa Robins, who led the investigation, praised the bravery of the victims. “These women showed incredible courage in coming forward. Their evidence painted a deeply disturbing picture of a man who used fear, violence, and emotional manipulation to dominate every aspect of their lives.”
Robins added, “This case sends a strong message that coercive control, sexual violence, and domestic abuse will not be tolerated. We will continue to pursue offenders and ensure survivors are supported every step of the way.”
Thornton’s pattern of abuse began in 2009 and continued until his final arrest in 2023. His victims ranged in age from their early 20s to late 30s at the time of the abuse. Several had previously attempted to report him but said they were either too frightened to proceed or felt unsupported. It was only after one woman came forward with detailed allegations in 2022 that police were able to build a case strong enough to launch a wider investigation.
The Crown Prosecution Service described Thornton as “a manipulative and sadistic offender who deliberately targeted vulnerable women for his own gratification and control.” Prosecutor Anna Whitcombe said, “These women were not just victims of physical violence, but also of psychological warfare. Thornton used every tool at his disposal to dominate and degrade.”
Thornton has been remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced next month. He faces a lengthy prison term, with sentencing guidelines indicating he could receive a life sentence due to the seriousness and sustained nature of the offences.
Victim support services in West Sussex have urged anyone experiencing domestic or sexual abuse to seek help, emphasizing that support is available regardless of when the abuse occurred.
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