Hailsham man escapes jail over child sex charges

A man from Hailsham has narrowly escaped jail after being convicted of historic sex offences involving a teenage girl.

Thirty-one-year-old Ben Smith, of Lindfield Drive, Hailsham, was given a suspended sentence when he appeared at crown court on January 24.

He had been convicted at the same court of two offences following a trial by a jury in December.

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He was found guilty of sexual activity with a child – which the court described as a teenage girl under 16 – and causing or inciting a child – again which the court described as a teenage girl under the age of 16 – to engage in sexual activity.

Smith was given a nine month sentence suspended for 18 months, ordered to carry out a 15 day rehabilitation activity requirement and must sign on the sex offenders register for 10 years.