GMP Detective convicted of sexually assaulting colleagues
It follows an internal investigation from Greater Manchester Police
DS Richard Mills from GMP's Crime Coordination Unit has been found guilty of two counts of sexual assault involving a GMP police officer and a member of staff.
Mills has been suspended from GMP since 27th March 2023 and following today's conviction an accelerated misconduct hearing is being organised.
Detective Sergeant Richard Mills (28/01/1983) of Rochdale has been found guilty of two counts of sexual assault following a two-week trial at Liverpool Crown Court. Incidents involved offending against a GMP police officer and member of staff.
GMP said: "Our Professional Standards Directorate built a strong prosecution case following an extensive investigation into DS Mills. He first came onto our internal investigation team’s radar in 2016 following a report from a member of staff.
"Detectives began investigating allegations of sexual assault and gross misconduct and DS Mills was relocated from working in Chadderton Police Station to the Crime Coordination Unit in Nexus House.
"In March 2023, DS Mills made inappropriate comments of a sexual nature in an open working environment within the earshot of several colleagues, sparking numerous complaints, and gaining the attention of our Professional Standards Directorate.
"Amid this widespread offence, a police officer came forward to disclose DS Mills had sexually assaulted her in 2020.
"In both cases, DS Mills grabbed his co-worker’s hand and forced them to touch his genitals over his trousers.
"DS Mills was suspended from the force on 27th March 2023 and was charged with five counts of sexual assault on 20th July 2023.
"During police interview, DS Mills denied the offences and provided no comment when questioned.
"After a jury found DS Mill guilty today, 20th December 2024, an accelerated misconduct hearing will be scheduled to hold him accountable for his behaviour."
Detective Chief Inspector Iqbal Ahmed of GMP’s Professional Standards Directorate said: “Our investigation into DS Mills uncovered alarming circumstances, whereby Mills preyed on women in the workplace who were just trying to do their jobs, and sexually assaulted them.
“His brazen actions ultimately led to his downfall, as discussions around inappropriate conduct and sexualised behaviour unearthed criminal offending and provided victims with the courage and readiness to support proceedings. I commend their bravery for coming forward and telling us what happened.
“The workplace should be a safe and inclusive environment and anyone who interferes with this will be dealt with appropriately. Throughout this case, we spoke with 37 officers or staff who worked alongside Mills, gathered testimonies, and significant evidence to support this conviction and upcoming misconduct proceedings.
“Mills is now a convicted sex offender, and while we are aware any outcome won’t undo distress Mills caused, it is our hope today’s result may provide a sense of closure to anyone affected by him.
“We are committed to upholding the highest professional standards and our dedicated team investigating internal matters are working tenaciously to root out those unworthy of serving the public as part of Greater Manchester Police.”