An OAP crime wave is washing across Sussex. Hundreds of pensioners and elderly residents across the county have been arrested on suspicion of theft, fraud, assault and serious sexual offences.

Experts claimed the harsh economic climate could have pushed pensioners into crime.

A 94-year-old woman was the oldest person arrested by Sussex Police in the last three years. The woman, who was arrested on suspicion of a theft in 2009, was one of two ninety-year-old plus ladies arrested by the force.

According to information provided to The Argus under the Freedom of Information Act, 1,282 over 65s were arrested between 2007 and 2009.

Other OAPs, including a 74-year-old woman accused of sexual assault, were investigated on suspicion of charges including burglary, arson and drug dealing/possession.

See today's Argus for full report.