A former Sussex Police officer who pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual assault by touching has been sentenced at court.

Ex-PC Ryan Busby, 26, appeared at Staines Magistrates’ Court on Friday (7 November) for sentencing, having admitted the charges at his first court appearance on 8 July.

He was given an 18-month community order, 25 rehabilitation days, 90 days of alcohol abstinence monitoring and ordered to undertake 200 hours of unpaid work.

The court heard that the offences occurred on 20 December 2024 at a social event, involving four women known to Busby, while he was off duty.

When the offences were reported, the matter was referred to the Independent Office of Police Conduct who directed that a local investigation by the force Professional Standards Department should be conducted. Following this investigation, the Crown Prosecution Service authorised that Busby be charged.

Busby was suspended from duty and resigned on 19 August. At an accelerated misconduct hearing held by the force presided over by Assistant Chief Constable Rosie Ross on 21 August, it was found Busby’s behaviour amounted to gross misconduct as a breach of professional standards relating to discreditable conduct and authority, respect and courtesy.

He would have been dismissed without notice had he not already resigned. Busby was also added to the College of Policing Barred list, which prevents a return to policing.

Superintendent Petra Lazar said: “Policing expects the highest standards of its officers and staff.

“Ryan Busby discredited himself and the service, causing harm to a number of victims. He has now been sentenced by the court and has rightly been dismissed from the service.”