Man jailed for sexually abusing young boy in Littlehampton
Matthew Johnston used Star Wars and superhero events to initially groom the victim, who was just 4-years-old when the abuse started
Last updated 24th Mar 2026
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A 49-year-old from Tottenham, London, has been sentenced to 16 years behind bars for the grooming and sexual abuse of a young boy in Littlehampton.
Matthew Johnston's crimes started in 2014 when the victim was just four years old.
He subjected the boy to repeated rapes and sexual abuse over several years.
Using ComiCon-style events centred around Star Wars and superheroes, Johnston groomed the victim, gaining his trust before committing the crimes.
The victim reported the abuse to Sussex Police in December 2024.
Following the report, the victim and his family received support from specialist officers, and an investigation began.
Johnston was arrested and charged with multiple offences, including two counts of rape and sexual assault of a child under 13, causing a child to engage in sexual activity, and engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child.
On 10th October, Hove Crown Court found Johnston guilty on all counts.
Johnston received a 16-year prison term on March 23, with an additional five years on extended licence due to his classification as a dangerous offender.
Johnston has been given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a Restraining Order indefinitely and has been added to the Sex Offenders’ Register.
Detective Constable Jacob Parkin said: “Matthew Johnston groomed, manipulated and abused this young victim over many years, in a total betrayal of the trust of him and his family.
“My thanks go to the victim and his family for their strength throughout this investigation. I have no doubt how challenging this process has been for them, but they have helped bring a dangerous offender to justice.
“If you, or anyone you know, has been a victim of sexual offending, please report it to Sussex Police. We will support you and we will do all we can to get you justice.”