If Gary pins Shelia down against her will, what offence has he committed?

In the context of the scenario presented, if Gary pins Shelia down against her will, the most appropriate classification of the offense would be rape. Rape involves non-consensual sexual intercourse, but it can also encompass actions that create a situation of sexual violation where there is no consent involved.

Pinning someone down against their will indicates a lack of consent, which is a crucial element in identifying acts of sexual assault or rape. The action taken by Gary shows an intent to overpower Shelia physically, which can escalate to or imply coercion in a sexual manner, thus categorizing it under rape.

While sexual assault could technically apply, it generally refers to a broader range of non-consensual sexual behaviors that may not involve physical restraint leading to intercourse. Rape emphasizes the severity and explicit non-consent involved in the act, making it the more fitting choice when considering the physicality of the situation described.

Therefore, recognizing that the absence of consent is a fundamental aspect of both rape and sexual assault, in this specific context, pinning someone down against their will aligns more closely with the definition of rape, especially if the implication includes sexual intent or violation.