A Crawley paedophile has been sentenced to three years and two months in prison for a deeply distressing sexual assault on a 13-year-old boy in woodland, alongside possession of Category A and B child abuse material.
Swift Police Action Following Victim's Courage
The 37-year-old offender, Michael Simmonds of no fixed abode, attacked the teenage victim in woods during June last year. The boy demonstrated exceptional bravery by reporting the crime immediately to authorities, enabling Sussex Police officers to track down and arrest Simmonds promptly.
During their investigation, police conducted a search of Simmonds' mobile phone, where they discovered disturbing child abuse content classified as Category A and Category B material, representing the most serious classifications for such illegal imagery.
Breached Court Orders While on Bail
Simmonds was initially charged with sexual assault on June 30, 2025, and released on bail. During this period, the court issued a Sexual Risk Order (SRO) against him, imposing strict conditions on his technology use and requiring management by an offender supervisor.
However, Simmonds breached this order shortly afterward by downloading and using applications and websites without proper authorisation. He faced additional charges on October 27 for breaching the SRO and taking indecent photographs of children.
The defendant then violated his court bail conditions, resulting in his remand into custody while awaiting trial for his multiple offences.
Guilty Plea Leads to Prison Sentence
At Crawley Magistrates' Court on November 18, Simmonds entered guilty pleas to all charges against him. The case progressed to Lewes Crown Court, where on January 19 this year, Judge Sarah Clarke sentenced him to three years and two months imprisonment.
The court also imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that will remain in effect for ten years following his release from prison. This order places significant restrictions on Simmonds' future activities and requires ongoing supervision.
Police Praise Victim's Bravery
Detective Sergeant Melanie Pyle, who led part of the investigation for Sussex Police, commended the victim's courage in coming forward immediately after the assault.
"This was a deeply distressing offence, and I want to commend the exceptional bravery shown by the victim in coming forward so quickly to report what had happened," DS Pyle stated. "His courage enabled officers to act quickly and played a crucial role in bringing Simmonds to justice. We hope this outcome provides reassurance to victims that they will be listened to and supported."
The police emphasised their commitment to supporting victims of sexual offences and ensuring perpetrators face appropriate consequences through the criminal justice system.
