George Ellis, 41, from Chessington, and Mark Lett, 43, of Esher, have walked free after being cleared of rape at Hove Crown Court. The pair faced serious charges but were found not guilty following a tense trial.

Rape Charges Dropped After Brighton Trial

Ellis and Lett were arrested in December 2024 over an alleged attack on a 19-year-old man in Steine Lane, Brighton, on December 21. Both men denied all allegations.

  • Accused of raping a 19-year-old man
  • Charged with causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent
  • Faced additional assault-related charges

During the trial, the jury acquitted Ellis and Lett of all rape and sexual offences. Assault charges against them were also dropped.

No Further Action for Ellis and Lett

Both men now face no further police action. The complainant’s identity, aged 19 at the time, remains protected by law.

Detective Inspector Sean Booth said: “We are aware of the conclusion of a trial involving two defendants accused of the rape of a man and other sexual offences at Hove Crown Court. Following a thorough police investigation, the case has now concluded and we respect the verdict of the jury.”

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