West Mercia Police officer jailed for rape and sexual assaults
Michael Darbyshire has been sentenced to 14 years.
Last updated 12th May 2023
A West Mercia Police officer has been jailed after he was found guilty of rape and sexual assaults.
Michael Darbyshire, 57, had been charged with one count of rape and five counts of sexual assault.
A jury at Worcester Crown Court found him guilty of all charges earlier today (12 May) following a two week retrial. He has been sentenced to 14 years.
The offences, which took place between November 2018 and August 2019, were reported to police in November 2019.
Darbyshire was suspended from duty and eventually charged.
Deputy Chief Constable Alex Murray said: "The crimes committed by Michael Darbyshire were abhorrent.
“The victims in this case showed great bravery and courage in coming forward and supporting our investigation. They have been incredibly patient through the process, and I would like to thank them for helping ensure a dangerous individual will now face the consequences of his crimes.
“I want the public to have confidence in our actions to proactively root out those who have no place in policing. We will continue to make sure those in our force who commit criminal offences are put before the courts and face disciplinary procedures to ensure they are banned from working in policing ever again.
“I would like to reassure victims of sexual offences that when they make a complaint to us, we will investigate it thoroughly and have a team of specially trained officers who will support them throughout the process. Regardless of who the perpetrator is we will investigate without fear or favour.”
Darbyshire will now be subject to a misconduct process.