Carer avoids jail for historic sex offences against child

Wednesday, 23 September 2026 18:30

A carer who sexually assaulted a teenage boy in the 1990s has avoided a prison sentence.

Donna Bentley, 53, was unanimously convicted of two counts of procuring acts of gross indecency, and one count of indecent assault, following a trial in July.

The offences took place when the victim was under the age of 16, and he reported to police what happened in 2024.

Bentley was charged in October 2025.

She has been told to carry out 456 hours of community service over two years, with a three-year restraining order also issued.

The victim said:

"What happened to me when I was a child was hugely traumatic and distressing, and although it took me many years to recognise it as abuse, it has affected so many areas of my life in a negative way; this is something I will be dealing with for the rest of my life.

"For anyone who has suffered, or is still suffering from sexual abuse, I would encourage you to come forward. There is a huge support network available that can help victims like me through the process, in particular Dewberry House and Jersey Domestic Abuse Support. JDAS have provided me with invaluable support throughout the police investigation and the court process.

"My case proves that there is no place to hide for sexual abusers, even if it happened a long time ago."

Detective Constable Elianne Jones, who led the investigation, said:

"The victim's decision to report what happened took considerable courage. I hope his experience shows other victims, that they will be listened to, supported and taken seriously, regardless of gender."

"We will investigate reports of offending however long ago they occurred. Anyone who is not ready to speak directly to the police can approach independent support services for confidential advice and assistance."

Local support agencies:

The SARC at Dewberry House: 01534 888222
Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR): 01534 482801
Jersey Domestic and Sexual Abuse Support (JDAS): 01534 880505
Victims First Jersey: 01534 721111

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