Three plead guilty to ‘terrifying’ attack in Bexhill

Police said the victim was walking along Holliers Hill around 11.30pm on Sunday, May 31, when he noticed a yellow Audi drive past him several times before stopping nearby.

Three people – two men and a boy – got out of the vehicle and approached the victim before suddenly attacking him, punching him repeatedly to the face, police said.

The victim managed to break free briefly before falling over, police added, where he was then further attacked while on the ground.

After the three suspects left the scene, the victim realised his Apple Air Pods and £250 cash were missing from his pocket.

Police attended the scene and began a search for the yellow Audi. Less than an hour later, at 12.30am on Monday, June 1, the vehicle was found in Bexhill Road, St Leonards.

The three suspects – Cameron Skilton, Reece Ripley and a 15-year-old boy who cannot be named for legal reasons – were found inside the car and were arrested, police said. Ripley was found to have £230 in cash hidden in his sock when he was searched in custody.

On June 30, Skilton, 22, a labourer, of Oak Road, Bexhill, pleaded guilty to assault and theft when he appeared at Hove Crown Court, police confirmed.

Ripley, 20, unemployed, of Sidley Green, Bexhill, pleaded guilty to assault when he appeared at Hove Crown Court on the same date, a police spokesman added.

They have both been remanded in custody for sentencing on August 6.

The 15-year-old boy also pleaded guilty to assault. He has been released on court bail for sentencing on August 6, according to police.

Detective Police Constable Sam Collyer said: “This was a terrifying and unprovoked attack which left the victim very shaken.

“Our officers were quick to identify the vehicle and persons involved, and we’re pleased to have secured guilty pleas from all three offenders.”