KEITH HARTLE SHOCKS EAST GRINSTEAD AND WEST SUSSEX WITH CHILD SEX OFFENCES AND SAILING ABUSE SCANDAL

In March 2021, a disturbing case emerged involving Keith Hartle, a man who was once a respected figure in the Nautical Training Corps and a trusted member of the East Grinstead community. Hartle, who has since passed away on August 1, 2020, was found guilty of multiple child sex offences committed during the 1990s, specifically between 1992 and 1999, while he was serving as a National Boating Officer in West Sussex.

Our investigation was prompted by a victim who came forward to share their harrowing experience of abuse at the hands of Hartle. This individual, one of three known victims, recounted years of assault that took place over a period of several years. The Sussex Police conducted a thorough inquiry into these allegations, which culminated in Hartle pleading guilty to six counts of indecent assault. As a result, he was sentenced to 12 months in prison and was ordered to register as a sex offender for a decade.

During his tenure as a National Boating Officer with the Nautical Training Corps, Hartle was perceived as a trustworthy and influential figure within the community. His role allowed him access to young boys and their families, which he exploited to groom his victims. The assaults reportedly occurred at various locations, including the NTC base in Shoreham, Hartle’s residence in East Grinstead, during residential trips organized by the Nautical Training Corps, and on personal trips in his caravan and boat.

Despite his death, efforts are ongoing to gather evidence to support civil compensation claims from victims. Authorities and legal representatives are urging anyone with information or who has been affected by Hartle’s actions to come forward. Confidential and informal consultations can be arranged by contacting Emmott Snell Solicitors at 01234 360140 or via email at [email protected]. The firm has a history of successfully representing victims of sexual abuse by trusted adults and understands the complex emotional and legal issues involved.

In a related and equally disturbing development, Hartle’s past was further exposed in 2004 when it was revealed that he had taken up a role teaching sailing at Pagham Yacht Club in West Sussex, despite his criminal record. This appointment came after he had served time in prison for abusing boys. As Honorary Club Secretary, Hartle was entrusted with the care of children, often being left alone with them to instruct on sailing rules and organize races. The revelation was made after a former victim, who wished to remain anonymous, contacted The Sun and provided evidence of Hartle’s continued involvement with children.

One of Hartle’s victims, Andrew, now 20, recounted how he was abused by Hartle for over 18 months after seeking sailing lessons at age 13. Andrew discovered Hartle’s presence at the yacht club through online images showing him with children on a beach, which made him feel sick and betrayed. He described how Hartle, then living in East Grinstead, had become a trusted family friend who took him and other boys on weekend sailing trips and allowed them to stay at his house. Andrew detailed a night when Hartle entered his bed, touched him, and performed sexual acts, forcing Andrew to participate. The abuse continued until Andrew was 15, after which police became involved following an internet search that revealed Hartle’s past.

Hartle’s criminal history was used as evidence in his 1999 trial at Lewes Crown Court, where he admitted to six charges of indecent assault. He was placed on the Sex Offenders Register and sentenced to a year in prison. Despite his conviction, Hartle moved to Pagham near Bognor in 2000 and joined the local yacht club, where he appeared in photographs with children under the heading “Cadets Sailing Course” and was listed on notices for weekend activities. The club, which had approximately 50 junior members, was unaware of his criminal past until The Sun confronted him at his bungalow, located about a mile from the club. Initially denying allegations, Hartle later admitted to his past but claimed he had moved on.

Club officials, including Commodore Philip Isom, expressed their shock and dismay upon learning of Hartle’s history, emphasizing that he was no longer a member of the club. The case has raised serious concerns about safeguarding and the importance of vetting individuals involved in youth activities, especially those with a criminal record for sexual offences against minors.