Littlehampton Sex Attacker Jailed After Police Sting Operation

A man has been sentenced to eight years in prison after sexually assaulting a woman and a police officer in Littlehampton.

Mark Stankus, 44, targeted a lone woman in the town centre before assaulting an undercover officer in a subsequent sting operation. Stankus pleaded guilty to sexual assault and causing actual bodily harm.

The initial assault occurred on September 2, when Stankus followed and attacked a woman walking alone at night, pushing her to the ground.

The incident, captured on CCTV, prompted Sussex Police to deploy undercover officers. On October 1, an officer in her 20s was followed and assaulted by Stankus, leading to his immediate arrest as he attempted to flee.

Sussex Police have praised the bravery of the officers involved, particularly the young female officer who played a crucial role in apprehending Stankus.

Detective Chief Superintendent Richard McDonagh highlighted the coordinated effort to ensure community safety and warned other potential offenders of the police’s commitment to tackling such crimes. Stankus also received a restraining order and has to register as a sex offender for life.