Man who sexually abused young child in Jersey jailed for life

A man who 'cynically, cruelly, and repeatedly' sexually abused a young child in Jersey has been jailed for life.

Aaron Gardner, 36, will serve at least 14 years behind bars after being found guilty of three offences, following a trial earlier this year.

The offending took place over a near two-year period, during which Gardner was involved in the child's care.

He bowed his head in the dock as the court heard details of his crimes and the impact they've had on the victim and his family.

They described how the ‘devastating abuse’ has left him suffering with night terrors and a fear of men and strangers.

He was initially arrested in June 2025 and went on trial in June 2026, charged with two counts of sexual penetration of a child under the age of 12, and one count of sexual touching under the age of 12.

He was found guilty of all three offences.

In sentencing, Gardner was told that he was 'a predatory paedophile with no boundaries, and 'a highly dangerous man', whose offending was 'heinous in their planning and repeated execution'.

Gardner still maintains his innocence.

Jersey Police say the welfare of the child was a priority throughout the investigation and court proceedings, with the victim giving evidence via pre-record, meaning he didn’t need to attend court in person during the trial.

The victim and his family received support from a number of specialist services, including independent sexual violence advisers and children’s services social workers.

Detective Carla Garnier said:

“This was a deeply distressing case involving serious sexual offences committed against a young child.

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

“We are grateful for the support provided by the intermediary service, the Law Officers Department, Independent Sexual Violence Advisers and Children’s Services. 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 courage showed by this young victim throughout the investigation and court proceedings has been remarkable, and 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, while ensuring the victim and their family were supported at every stage.”

Chief Inspector Mark Hafey said:

“Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of these offences and the lasting impact they have on victims and their families.

“This case demonstrates the importance of strong partnership working between investigators, prosecutors and support services to ensure victims receive the support they need while offenders are held accountable for their actions.

”Protecting children remains a priority for the States of Jersey Police, and we will continue to work closely with our safeguarding partners to support victims, safeguard children, and pursue those responsible for these offences.”

Anyone affected by the issues in this case can receive support through local safeguarding and victim support services.

• 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