Man jailed for 30 years for sexually abusing child in Waterlooville
Michael Lashley repeatedly abused a girl from the age of three
A man who sexually abused a child in Waterlooville over a number of years has been sentenced to 30 years in prison.
Michael Lashley, aged 38 and of no fixed abode, was convicted of raping and abusing the girl at his home after a lengthy investigation.
The abuse began when the victim was just three years old and escalated in severity over time, with Lashley threatening to harm her if she ever disclosed what was happening.
During this period, Lashley also drank alcohol and physically assaulted the girl.
When the victim was a teenager, she messaged Lashley about the abuse and threatened to report him to the police. Lashley responded by begging her not to, admitting he was scared of prison and could not cope.
In April 2021, the girl confided in a teacher, who contacted the police and initiated an investigation.
Court proceedings
Lashley faced multiple charges, including four counts of raping a child, one count of sexually assaulting a child, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
He denied the offences but was found guilty following a trial at Portsmouth Crown Court on 15th October 2025.
Appearing at the same court on 16th January 2026, Lashley was jailed for 30 years.
He was also handed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order.
Police statement
DC Kerry Needham, who worked on the case, described the abuse as horrific:
“This was a horrific case of repeated rape and sexual abuse on a child who was just three years-old when the abuse began.
“It is utterly inconceivable that a human being could treat a child like this. The bravery shown by this girl in coming forward and not allowing Lashley to get away with his unspeakable crimes is astonishing.
“She should be commended for her courage, and it is because of her that this dangerous offender will now spend a lengthy period of time in prison.”
Support services
Police are encouraging anyone affected by child sexual abuse to contact them in confidence by calling 101.
Specialist support services are also available, including Child Line at 0800 11 11 and the NSPCC at 0808 800 5000.