'Predatory paedophile' jailed for abusing child

A "predatory paedophile" has been jailed for life for abusing and grooming a young child in Jersey.

Aaron Gardner, 36, from Jersey, was sentenced to a minimum of 14 years at the Royal Court.

Gardner was found guilty by jurors at a trial in June of two counts of sexual penetration of a child under the age of 12 and one count of sexual touching of a child under the age of 12.

Presiding judge commissioner Patricia Lees described Gardner as a "predatory paedophile with no boundaries". Jersey Police detective Carla Garnier, who was the officer in charge of the case, said the courage shown by the young victim throughout the investigation and court proceedings had been "remarkable".

Jersey Police detective Carla Garnier, who was the officer in charge of the case, said: "This was a deeply distressing case involving serious sexual offences committed against a young child.

"Throughout the investigation, our priority was not only to secure the best possible evidence, but also to ensure the victim and their family were supported through what has been an extremely difficult process."

She added: "We also acknowledge the strength and resilience of their family.

"Investigations involving the abuse of children are among the most challenging cases we encounter.

"Throughout this investigation, our team remained committed to securing the best possible evidence whilst ensuring the victim and their family were supported at every stage."

She said the force was grateful for the support from the intermediary service, the Law Officers' Department and the Independent Sexual Violence Advisors and Children's Services.

Garnier said: "Their collective efforts helped ensure the victim was able to engage with the criminal justice process in a way that recognised their age, communication needs and individual circumstances."

The court heard Gardner was arrested in June 2025 and was subsequently charged with the offences.

Following a Royal Court trial in June, a jury found Gardner guilty of all three offences.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story you can visit BBC Action Line or receive support through local safeguarding and victim support services including:

• The SARC at Dewberry House
• Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR)
• Jersey Domestic and Sexual Abuse Support (JDAS)
• Victims First Jersey

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