Crawley man jailed for sexually assaulting boy and possessing child abuse material
The offences included breaching a Sexual Risk Order and court bail.
Last updated 27th Jan 2026
A 37-year-old man from Crawley has been sentenced to over three years in prison after sexually assaulting a boy and being found with child abuse material on his phone.
Michael Simmonds, of no fixed abode, was reported to Sussex Police after a 13-year-old boy disclosed that he had been sexually assaulted in woodland in June 2025. The report allowed officers to quickly locate and arrest Simmonds.
Following his arrest, officers examined Simmonds’ mobile phone and discovered child abuse material, including Category A and B images.
Simmonds was charged with sexual assault on 30th June 2025 and initially released on bail. During this time, specialist officers obtained a Sexual Risk Order (SRO) imposing restrictions on his use of technology and requiring oversight by an offender manager.
Shortly after, Simmonds breached the SRO by downloading and using apps and websites without authorisation. On 27th October 2025, he was charged with breaching the SRO and taking indecent photographs of children. He later breached his court bail, leading to his custody remand.
He appeared at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on 18th November 2025, where he pleaded guilty to all offences.
At his sentencing at Lewes Crown Court on 19th January 2026, Simmonds received a total prison sentence of three years and two months. He was also made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for ten years.
Detective Sergeant Melanie Pyle said: “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. 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.”
Anyone affected by sexual abuse is encouraged to report their experience to police on 101 or visit Sussex Police’s website for advice and support.