Horsham man convicted of repeated child sexual abuse
Keith Clifton, 58, found guilty of multiple offences following a two-week trial, with sentencing due in February
Last updated 28th Jan 2026
A Horsham man has been found guilty for rape and sexual abuse against a young girl over several years.
58-year-old, Keith Clifton of Tanyard Close in Horsham, began abusing his victim when she was four years old, up until she was thirteen.
Clifton was arrested at his home in 2018 after the victim, who is now a woman in her 20s, approached Sussex Police.
He was charged with six counts of rape of a girl under 13, five counts of assault by penetration, four counts of assault by touching, two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child and one count of causing/inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity.
After a two-week trial at Hove Trial Centre, Clifton was convicted of multiple offences, including counts of rape and sexual assault.
Clifton has been remanded in custody to appear before the same court for sentencing on Monday, 23 February.
Detective Sergeant Ellen Jones said: “I cannot commend the victim enough for the incredible strength and courage she has shown to support this investigation and help bring her abuser to justice.
“She is a remarkable woman, forced to live with the trauma of Clifton’s appalling crimes, but with the determination to take back control and hold him accountable for his crimes.
“She will continue to receive the full support of Sussex Police and our partners as we await sentencing, with Clifton remanded behind bars to await the outcome.
“I also commend the investigative team for their diligence in a complex, distressing investigation that has resulted in a successful outcome and another dangerous offender off the streets of Sussex.
“If you are a victim of sexual offending, no matter how long ago, please report it to us. We will do all we can to get you the justice you deserve.”