A landscape gardener from Horsham has been jailed for a series of sexual offences committed against a girl over several years.
Robert Aynsley, 56, of Windrum Close, began abusing the victim when she was 12 and continued to subject her to repeated assaults until she turned 17. The offences came to light in May 2022, when the victim reported the abuse to police. She was immediately supported by specialist officers as a full investigation was launched.
Aynsley was arrested that same month and later charged with multiple offences, including five counts of sexual assault on a child, two counts of assault by touching, two counts of inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity, and two counts of attempted assault by penetration. He denied all charges.
Following a trial at Lewes Crown Court, he was convicted on all counts on 11 November 2025. At the same court on Tuesday, 3 February, he was sentenced to 12 years in prison. He was also made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order designed to restrict his ability to reoffend upon release.
Detective Sergeant Ellen Jones praised the victim’s courage, saying the crimes were “appalling, sustained and will have a lasting traumatic impact.” She added that the victim’s determination to report the abuse and give evidence in court had been instrumental in securing the conviction.
Police urged anyone who has experienced sexual abuse—regardless of how long ago it occurred—to come forward, stressing that support and a path to justice are available.
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