Hove man jailed for sexually assaulting women in public spaces
A Hove man has been jailed after admitting to sexually assaulting multiple women in public spaces over a four-year period.
Fattah Derrahi, 59, of Farm Road in Hove, pleaded guilty to 11 counts of sexual assault against 11 women. The offences took place between September 2021 and October 2025.
Derrahi primarily targeted women who were exercising or had recently finished exercising. He would approach them in public areas, often starting conversations by complimenting their “energy” before manipulating situations to initiate physical contact.
The court heard he would offer to help victims stretch, dance or take part in breathing exercises, before sexually assaulting them.
Many of the offences occurred along the seafront, particularly around Hove Lawns.
Derrahi was arrested in November 2025 and later charged with multiple counts of sexual assault. He was remanded in custody ahead of court proceedings.
At a hearing at Lewes Crown Court on 15 December, he admitted nine charges, before later pleading guilty to two additional offences relating to incidents in 2021.
He was sentenced at the same court on Friday, 27 March, to six years in prison.
Detective Inspector Jenny Pietersen said the sentencing marked an important moment for public safety.
“Brighton and Hove is a safer place now that Fattah Derrahi has been brought to justice,” she said.
“I want to extend my gratitude to the brave women who came forward and reported Mr Derrahi for his heinous behaviour. Today we received justice for those involved and all women using open spaces in our communities.”
She added that police remain committed to improving services for women and girls, working with partners to prevent crime, support victims and bring offenders to justice.
Support remains available for victims of sexual offences across Sussex, with organisations offering emotional, practical and therapeutic assistance to those affected.