Brighton Man Jailed After Shocking Knifepoint Rape in City Centre
Terrifying Attack in Bartholomew Square
Philip Smith, 28, has been convicted of a brutal knifepoint rape that sent shockwaves through Brighton. Just after 3.30am on Saturday 9 August 2025, the 31-year-old victim was attacked on a public bench in Bartholomew Square. Smith threatened her with a knife during the horrifying assault.
The victim managed to call a nearby friend, who rushed to the scene and stopped the attack. Sussex Police were alerted immediately.
Quick Police Response Nabs Suspect
- Victim gave a detailed description of Smith.
- Within 45 minutes, police arrested him near Quadrophenia Alley, Little East Street.
- Officers found multiple knives, including the one used in the attack, plus Class A drugs on Smith.
Smith, who has no fixed address, was taken into custody. While detained, he exposed himself to two women at Brighton Custody Centre, adding two more charges to his case.
Smith Faces Multiple Charges After Earlier Assault
Philip Smith is now charged with:
- Two counts of rape
- Two counts of indecent exposure
- Possession of Class A drugs
- Possession of a bladed article in public
He was already on bail for another sexual assault in Brighton on 5 August 2025. Smith denied the rape charges but pleaded guilty to the others. However, on 26 February, a jury at Lewes Crown Court found him guilty of both rapes.
