Former Brighton teaching assistant jailed for sexually assaulting girls

A former teaching assistant has received a six-and-a-half-year prison sentence for sexually assaulting four young girls.

Stephen Payne, 69, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on Wednesday 31 January 2024, after being found guilty of 13 sexual offences.

The offences included nine counts of indecent assault against a girl under 16, three counts of engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13-15 and one count of assault by touching of a girl under 13.

Payne was also given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order, and will be on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.

A Police Constable involved with the investigation said the victims had shown extraordinary courage to report Payne’s crimes.

It is encouraging to see the victims were heard, believed, and that Payne will now face jail time for his actions, hopefully giving the victims a feeling of justice being served.

The police have also issued a statement saying they believe Payne may have had more victims and encourage anyone who is a victim of a sexual offence – no matter how long ago – to report it to the police.

I strongly support this message and would also encourage any victim of abuse to come forward.

As well as seeking justice through the criminal justice system, a victim of abuse may have the option of receiving financial compensation to assist with rebuilding their lives.

If you believe you are a victim of sexual abuse, you can contact me using the details below at any time for a free and confidential conversation about your legal options.