A man has been found guilty of raping a teenage boy in a flat in central Brighton.
In the early hours of 10 August 2025, a 17-year-old boy was sitting on a bench in Dyke Road, near the junction of North Street, when he was approached by 38-year-old Rafael Nascimento, a Brazilian national who was visiting Brighton on holiday.
Nascimento asked the teenager where he could buy cigarettes and then worked to gain his trust before taking him to a property in Regent Hill, where the offence occurred.
Nascimento was arrested the same day after the incident was promptly reported to police.
He was initially charged with one count of rape of a male and appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 12 August. He was later further charged with three counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault and causing a person to incite in sexual activity and appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 12 August. The case was sent for trial.
On Tuesday 2 February, the jury in the two-week trial at Lewes Crown Court found Nascimento guilty of four counts of rape and causing a person to incite in sexual activity. They found him not guilty of the sexual assault charges.
Nascimento was remanded in custody to appear for sentencing on 17 April.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector, Steve Cobbett, said: “We cannot underestimate the importance of the victim’s bravery in coming forward and reporting this horrific crime so promptly.
“His action enabled officers to quickly identify, locate and arrest Nascimento within hours of the offence.
“During police enquiries, it was found that Nascimento was in the UK on holiday and was due to fly back to Brazil the day after the offence, making the victim’s early report even more crucial to the investigation.
“The jury has now returned their verdict, and we await Nascimento’s sentencing in April.”
“Sexual offences against men remain under‑reported, yet every report matters. Victims can have confidence they will be believed, supported, and fully protected. If you are a victim of a sexual crime, we understand that coming forward can feel difficult. We will investigate all reports thoroughly, and you will be listened to, taken seriously, and supported throughout the process.”
To make a report regarding any crime, you can contact police online or call 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.
