Love Island alum Cashel Barnett sentenced to jail for sexual abuse and domestic violence

Cashel Barnett, a former Love Island USA contestant, will remain behind bars after pleading guilty to multiple charges of sexual abuse and domestic violence in two separate cases, the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s office confirmed.

Barnett, who has been in custody since June 2025 following his arrest, was sentenced on Monday, March 16. In the first case, he pleaded guilty to second-degree felony forcible sexual abuse. 

In a second, related case, he pleaded guilty to third-degree felony aggravated assault and third-degree felony domestic violence in the presence of a child. 

Each charge carries a one-year jail sentence, with credit for time served applied from the date of his plea.

According to prosecutors, the charges stemmed from incidents involving the mother of Barnett’s daughter. 

Court documents allege that on April 10, 2025, Barnett “placed his hands on the throat of M.N. in a way that impeded her breathing” in front of their minor child. 

He also admitted to touching her breasts without consent, “with the intent to arouse or gratify his sexual desires.” 

The victim reported being slammed onto a bed and subjected to sustained pressure that made it difficult for her to breathe.

Barnett’s attorney, Andrew Deesing, told Peeple that his client “regrets what happened,” noting that plea deals are a common resolution in the justice system. 

“When the government offers a deal that requires a year in jail instead of 15 years to life, it creates a tough situation,” Deesing said.

Barnett is best known for competing on the first season of Love Island USA in 2019 and later appearing on The Challenge: USA in 2022. 

Upon release, he will be placed on Adult Probation & Parole and remain subject to a continuous protective order.