Police officer "manipulated" woman to cover up his "inappropriate behaviour"
An ex Dalkeith Police officer has been jailed, with the Crown office saying he "abused his respected position as a police officer"
Last updated 27th Apr 2023
An ex Dalkeith Police officer, jailed for attempting to pervert the course of justice, has been told he "manipulated" a woman who "trusted him".
Gavin Donaldson was sentenced to 14 months behind bars today (April 27) at Edinburgh Sheriff Court after admitting he told a vulnerable young woman to delete all contact between the two.
Donaldson had met the woman, called Anisha, after she reported a domestic abuse case to him.
Despite the fact she was a teenager, and had disclosed her vulnerabilities to him, Mr Donaldson - who is 45 and married with a young son - stayed in touch with Anisha for years after was necessary in a professional capacity.
Their relationship eventually turned sexual, and when this was discovered by the Police force, who placed Mr Donaldson under investigation, he urged Anisha to delete all messages between the pair.
READ MORE: Former Dalkeith police officer jailed
Justin Farrell, who heads the Crown’s specialist Criminal Allegations Against the Police Division, said:
“Gavin Donaldson abused his respected position as a police officer.
“A woman who trusted him to provide professional help and support found herself being manipulated by him and encouraged to cover-up his entirely inappropriate behaviour.
“I commend this woman’s bravery in speaking out about Donaldson’s actions.
“Members of the public will be protected by the law.
“They should have confidence that prosecutors will respond robustly and independently to reports of criminal behaviour by police officers.”
Chief Superintendent Catriona Henderson said: "Gavin Donaldson's sentence reflects the serious nature of his offending and absolute abuse of his position as a police officer. His actions fell far below the high levels of professionalism, as well as the standards and values, we expect from all serving Police Scotland officers and staff.
“Those, like Donaldson, who reject what we stand for, don’t belong in Police Scotland.
"As soon as this offending came to light, Donaldson was swiftly removed from his position and a thorough criminal investigation carried out before he subsequently resigned from the organisation.
"I would like to thank those who supported the investigation, leading to this sentence."