Portslade man jailed for eight years for rape and controlling behaviour
Sussex Police praise the courage of the woman who reported him
A 50-year-old man from Portslade has been jailed for eight years for rape, harassment, controlling and coercive behaviour, and breaching a non-molestation order against a woman he knew.
Paul Savage was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on Friday 23rd October.
Sussex Police said the woman had lived in fear for years because of his unpredictable behaviour.
What the woman reported
The woman reported that Savage was violent, controlling and sexually abusive.
Sussex Police said it was also reported that he was paranoid and jealous.
They said he contacted her excessively and tracked where she was and what she was doing.
When their relationship ended, police said he continued to drive past her address frequently and linger, trying to make his presence known.
This breached his police bail conditions and a court non-molestation order.
Savage was arrested and remanded in custody when this was reported to police. He stayed there until his trial date.
Charges and conviction
Savage was first charged on 2nd January 2026.
He was charged with rape on 18th February 2026.
He appeared at Lewes Crown Court on 10th July, when he was found guilty of rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, harassment and breach of a non-molestation order.
He was sentenced to eight years in prison on 23rd October.
What Sussex Police 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."
She also said: "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."
She added: "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."
DC Turner also said: "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."
She said: "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."