A Portslade man has been jailed for eight years for rape, harassment, breach of a non-molestation order and controlling or coercive behaviour against a woman known to him, Sussex Police has said.
Paul Savage, 50, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on Friday 23 October. Sussex Police announced the sentence on Tuesday 27 October. The force said he was found guilty on 10 July.
What Sussex Police said happened
Sussex Police said the woman had lived in fear for years because of Savage’s “unpredictable and terrifying behaviour”. The force said she reported that he was violent, controlling and sexually abusive.
She also reported that he was paranoid and jealous, that he contacted her excessively, and that he tracked where she was and what she was doing.
Police said that when their relationship ended, Savage kept driving past her address and lingering to make his presence known. That breached his police bail conditions and a court non-molestation order. When it was reported, he was arrested and remanded in custody, where he stayed until his trial date.
From charge to sentence
Savage was charged on 2 January 2026 with intentional strangulation, possession of Class A and Class C drugs, stalking involving fear of violence, breach of a non-molestation order and controlling or coercive behaviour. He was charged with rape on 18 February 2026.
At Lewes Crown Court on 10 July he was found guilty of rape, controlling or coercive behaviour, harassment and breach of the non-molestation order. He was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment on 23 October.
What the investigating officer said
Detective Constable Lisa Turner said:
“The complainant in this case has shown incredible strength and courage to come forward and tell her story. When she contacted police, she felt scared and isolated. She feared she could make matters worse by reporting her partner, who was unpredictable. However, despite this she reported her experience to police and supported an investigation.
“Savage was placed on police bail but continued his behaviour, even when a court order was imposed. Due to the courage of the complainant in continuing to report to police about breaches, a very swift stop was put to this, when Savage was remanded into custody.
“There are often many barriers to reporting to police, but I hope this case shows that police will take your report seriously. Victims of domestic abuse and sexual abuse do not need to suffer in silence; there is help available.
“Clare’s Law provides an opportunity for people to seek information about a partner’s history of abusive behaviour. If you have concerns about your safety or the safety of someone you know, please contact police.
“Early intervention can help prevent abuse and protect those at risk. If you are thinking about reporting but are uncertain of what will happen next, police will take your report seriously and listen to you. There are also many charities which can support you through the process.”
Where to get support
If you are in danger, call 999.
Clare’s Law lets people ask the police about a partner’s history of abusive behaviour, and lets police share information in some circumstances. In Sussex you can apply on the Sussex Police website or by calling 101, according to Brighton and Hove City Council.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline. The helpline is free and open 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247. It is run by the charity Refuge.
Rape Crisis. The Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line is free and open 24 hours a day on 0808 500 2222. You can also use the Rape Crisis website to find a local service.
In Brighton and Hove. RISE is an independent Brighton-based charity that helps people affected by domestic abuse. Its helpline is on 01273 622 822, open on Monday and Tuesday mornings from 9.30am to 12.30pm.
ImJustBrighton note. This report is based on the Sussex Police news release published on 27 October 2026. Victims of sexual offences are entitled to lifelong anonymity in law, so the woman is not named and we have left out details that could identify her.
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