A former University of Sussex student has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for raping and sexually assaulting five women.
Alex Patel-Wills, 26, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court after being found guilty of four counts of rape, two sexual assaults and one assault by penetration. The offences were committed while he was studying in Brighton.
During sentencing, Judge Christine Laing KC said Patel-Wills showed a strong sense of entitlement and “not the slightest remorse” toward his victims. The court heard he believed he was “irresistible” to women and used drugs and alcohol to exploit vulnerable students.
Patel-Wills raped four fellow students and another woman. One of the attacks occurred while he was already on police bail and under investigation by the university for a separate rape allegation. The assaults took place in student accommodation, at his home in Brighton, on campus, and in London.
The court was told Patel-Wills dealt Class A drugs to other students, which he described as providing a “social service.” Prosecutors said he used drug dealing as a way to meet and target young women.
Judge Laing told Patel-Wills that sexual activity with women who were asleep or unconscious appeared to be a pattern in his offending.
Victim impact statements were read to the court, with one woman describing how the abuse left her feeling unsafe in her own body and struggling with long-term trauma.
Sussex Police Detective Constable Vicki Blythe praised the victims for their courage in reporting the crimes and said their bravery helped ensure Patel-Wills was brought to justice.
Patel-Wills, of Grove Road, Barnet, north London, showed no emotion as the sentence was passed. He will serve 19 years in custody, followed by six years on extended licence under police supervision. He will also remain on the sex offenders’ register for life.
The University of Sussex said it condemns all forms of sexual violence and has commissioned an independent review to ensure its safeguarding and reporting processes remain effective and aligned with best practice.
